Federal Preemption of AI Regulation: Trump Governance’s “One Rule” Order

Published: 2026/01/16 12:34:19

The “One Rule” Executive Order

In early December 2025,president Donald Trump announced a forthcoming executive order dubbed “One Rule,” signaling a significant shift in the United States’ approach to artificial intelligence (AI) governance. The order aims to establish federal preemption over state-level AI regulations, consolidating authority under the federal government.Trump framed the move as essential to prevent a patchwork of state laws from stifling innovation and hindering U.S. leadership in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.He warned that without federal oversight, the U.S. could see its AI advancements “DESTROYED IN ITS INFANCY” due to inconsistent and potentially restrictive state regulations [Source: Truth Social Post – Donald Trump].

Federal Preemption: What Does It Mean?

Federal preemption, in this context, means that federal law takes precedence over state laws when there is a conflict. Currently, several states are actively developing and implementing their own AI regulations, addressing issues like algorithmic bias, data privacy, and transparency. The “One Rule” order seeks to override these state-level efforts, establishing a single, national standard for AI development and deployment. Proponents argue this streamlined approach will reduce compliance costs for businesses and accelerate innovation. critics, however, express concerns about a potential weakening of consumer protections and a lack of responsiveness to local needs and values.

Why the Shift Towards Federal Control?

The Trump administration argues that a fragmented regulatory landscape-with 50 states each potentially enacting different AI rules-creates significant barriers to entry for companies and hinders the U.S.’s ability to compete globally. The administration believes a unified federal framework will foster a more predictable and efficient habitat for AI innovation, attracting investment and ensuring American dominance in the field. This approach aligns with a broader strategy of reducing what the administration views as unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles to technological advancement. [source: White House Briefing Room]

Potential Impacts and Concerns

The “One Rule” order has sparked considerable debate among policymakers, industry leaders, and civil society groups. Key concerns include:

• Reduced State Innovation: States frequently enough serve as “laboratories of democracy,” experimenting with different policy approaches. Federal preemption could stifle this innovation and prevent states from addressing unique regional challenges.
• Weakened Consumer Protections: Critics fear that a federal standard might prioritize industry interests over consumer rights, potentially leading to less stringent safeguards against algorithmic bias, data breaches, and other harms.
• Lack of Transparency: Concerns have been raised about the potential for the federal government to develop AI regulations without sufficient public input or transparency.
• Legal Challenges: The constitutionality of federal preemption in this area is likely to be challenged, as states may argue that AI regulation falls within their customary police powers.

Key Takeaways

• The Trump administration is pursuing a strategy of federal preemption in AI regulation through the “One Rule” executive order.
• The goal is to streamline regulations, reduce compliance costs, and promote U.S.leadership in AI.
• The order has generated significant controversy, with concerns raised about potential impacts on state innovation, consumer protections, and transparency.
• Legal challenges to the order are anticipated.

Looking Ahead

The implementation of the “One Rule” order will be closely watched by stakeholders across the AI ecosystem. The specifics of the federal AI standard, and how it will be enforced, will be crucial in determining its ultimate impact. Ongoing debate and potential legal battles are expected as the U.S. navigates the complex challenges of governing this transformative technology.The future of AI regulation in the United states hinges on finding a balance between fostering innovation and protecting the public interest. [Source: Brookings Institution – Artificial Intelligence Research]