Tom Steyer outlines AI and billionaire tax plans in WIRED interview

In short: California governor candidate Tom Steyer told WIRED he supports taxing billionaires, wants stronger rules around AI, and promises jobs for workers displaced by AI.

What happened

Tom Steyer, a billionaire and former hedge fund manager, was interviewed on WIRED’s podcast The Big Interview as he campaigns for governor of California. Steyer said he left his hedge fund world behind in 2012 and moved into climate activism. He also said he divested from oil and gas investments at that time, while keeping some remaining real estate investments tied to his former firm.

In the interview, Steyer backed the California Billionaire Tax Act in principle. He said he would vote for it if it appears on the ballot, but argued it is imperfect and does not go far enough. He pointed to high poverty rates and widening inequality in California, and said the state needs more “shared prosperity,” including stronger education.

On AI, Steyer said the technology is already here and could have a major impact on jobs. He called for safeguards like testing AI systems before release, and protections for children. He also repeated a campaign promise that any worker displaced by AI would be guaranteed a well-paid job with benefits, after training if needed.

Why it matters

California is home to many AI companies, so decisions made by its next governor can affect what rules companies follow and how workers are protected. Steyer is trying to balance keeping Silicon Valley businesses in the state while also pushing for higher taxes on the ultrawealthy and tighter oversight of AI. For voters, the practical question is whether those goals can fit together, like trying to tighten the rules of a game while keeping all the star players from leaving.

Source: Wired