Attorney General Todd Blanche announced that the Department of Justice will adopt a restrained approach toward artificial intelligence companies. He stated that prosecutors should focus on clear statutory violations rather than acting as de facto regulators for the industry.
Blanche, who was confirmed as the 88th Attorney General on August 8, 2026, criticized the previous administration for using enforcement actions as a substitute for legislation. He intends to stop expanding the department's jurisdiction into areas he considers the responsibility of Congress.
The DOJ will continue to enforce existing laws and address antitrust concerns. However, the department will not seek to preemptively shape regulatory outcomes, focusing instead on supporting current administration policies.
On September 8, 2026, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier proposed legislation to hold companies liable if their AI systems contribute to criminal activity. This proposal shifts the focus from executive intent to product involvement in crimes.
