Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Ilana Glazer discussed the need for local AI oversight, criticizing federal inaction and the rapid, unregulated deployment of the technology.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani and actor Ilana Glazer spoke about the societal impacts of artificial intelligence at The People’s AI Assembly in Manhattan on Monday. Mamdani argued that the rapid adoption of AI is not inevitable and urged New Yorkers to push back against the technology's influence on jobs and education. He criticized the federal government for failing to regulate the industry, leaving local officials to address AI-related concerns independently.

Local Policy Initiatives

Mamdani has recently implemented local measures to regulate AI use. Last month, he ordered a ban on AI in elementary and middle schools. Additionally, he introduced a policy over the summer requiring real estate professionals to disclose the use of AI in property listings to prevent misleading consumers.

Criticism of Federal Oversight

Mamdani characterized the current federal approach to AI as an "abdication of federal law," noting that the national conversation often prioritizes an arms race with China over humanistic concerns. He specifically criticized President Donald Trump’s Superintelligence Task Force for focusing on industry self-regulation rather than establishing new federal restrictions.

Accountability and Technology Risks

During the event, Mamdani highlighted the risks of overreliance on AI, citing a February U.S. military strike in Iran that resulted in over 150 deaths, including at least 123 children. Pentagon internal investigators identified overreliance on AI in targeting as a factor in that attack. Mamdani argued that companies promote AI as infallible to avoid accountability while preparing for future public offerings.