NEW YORK — The race to fill Rep. Jerry Nadler's shoes in New York’s 12th Congressional District has thrust artificial intelligence regulation into the spotlight. Assemblymember Alex Bores, self-dubbed the “AI guy,” is under scrutiny for his voting record on tech guardrail legislation despite championing significant AI laws like the RAISE Act.

While Bores has received substantial support from pro-regulation tech insiders, his opponents have not missed the opportunity to highlight the inconsistencies in his legislative actions. Jack Schlossberg, a key rival, has criticized Bores' RAISE Act as “watered down” and questioned the sincerity of his commitment to unbiased AI regulation given his industry backing.

Bores' legislative history reveals a selective approach to AI-related bills. He has opposed measures such as A4550, which required a study on AI’s impact on the workforce, and A773, concerning AI in banking decisions, citing concerns about their scope and impact on small businesses. His stance has not gone unnoticed, with Schlossberg likening his actions to those “taking money on the side from oil and gas companies” while claiming to combat fossil fuels.

Despite these controversies, Bores highlights his effective lawmaking, having been recognized as the “most effective new legislator” by the Center for Effective Lawmaking. He points to his nuanced position on bills like the LOADinG Act, which he initially supported in committee but later opposed on the floor due to concerns over broad definitions leading to biased outcomes. He emphasizes the importance of engaging deeply with the specifics of each bill to craft legislation that truly serves the public interest.

Meanwhile, fellow Assemblymember Micah Lasher, also vying for the NY-12 seat, is promoting a strong stance against the unchecked influence of tech giants, particularly on social media's impact on children. Bores himself has introduced legislation aimed at protecting children from harmful AI interactions online, a bill that Lasher co-sponsored.

The dialogue around AI regulation and its financial ties in the NY-12 race reflects broader national concerns about the balance between innovation and user protection in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. As candidates continue to debate and voters weigh their options, the outcome of this race could significantly influence future U.S. technology policy.