Surprising Revelations About a Non-Drinking, Mormon GOP Governor as a Fierce Populist Aiming to Take Down Big Tech

Cox Takes a Stand Against Social Media

“If you want to be angry at someone, it should be social media companies. These are some of the richest and most powerful corporations in history, profiting from harming our children and our country,” said Spencer Cox, the relatively unknown Republican governor of Utah.

These remarks may resonate with figures like Liz Warren or Bernie Sanders, but they come from Cox as he campaigns against Silicon Valley. Recently, he advocated for a ban on social media use for those under 16, echoing Australia’s approach. In addition, his office is pursuing legal action against Snapchat for what he describes as “illegal commercial practices akin to selling digital nicotine to children.” He’s also signed various anti-tech bills, including laws that prohibit cell phones in classrooms. Furthermore, there’s speculation that he might propose a “sin tax” on technology akin to taxes imposed on alcohol and tobacco.

Jonathan Martin notes that while he encourages Cox to pursue a presidential run in 2028, Cox is unlikely to secure the nomination. Even so, his involvement could open the floor for other candidates to engage in discussions about technology and AI.

For instance, Vice President J.D. Vance may face challenges defending his administration’s positive stance on technology, cryptocurrencies, and AI. Questions loom large: what if deregulation leads to an AI-induced financial crisis? Furthermore, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has recently ramped up his criticism of technology, likely setting the stage for confrontations between him and Vance on this issue.

Cox isn’t alone in his skepticism. Other figures such as Representatives Marjorie Taylor Greene and Thomas Massie, along with Senator Josh Hawley, are also vocal about the risks of AI data centers, particularly their effects on small rural communities.

Even if Cox decides against running or if Vance manages to make it through the primaries, the conversation about technology and AI will only grow louder in political arenas. Technology pervades so much of our lives, yet governmental efforts to scale up AI initiatives often seem lackluster compared to previous extensive projects like the New Deal.