Former Rep. Brad Carson (D-OK) is likely to run for president in 2028, according to a report by Politico citing two people familiar with his plans. Carson, who has not held elected office in more than two decades, has recently emerged as an influential figure in the debate over the development and regulation of advanced technology.

Carson spent much of the past election cycle helping build the political infrastructure behind the technology safety movement. He has been involved with Public First Action, a nonprofit organization focused on promoting safeguards and responsible development, which he co-founded with former Republican Rep. Chris Stewart of Utah. The organization and affiliated political groups have sought to raise tens of millions of dollars to support candidates who favor regulatory safeguards.

His work has also included leading Americans for Responsible Innovation, an advocacy organization focused on ensuring emerging technologies serve the public interest. Carson has spoken about potential risks involving job displacement, children's safety, inadequate human oversight and the possibility of increasingly advanced systems operating beyond human control.

Carson previously represented Oklahoma's 2nd Congressional District for two terms, serving from 2001 to 2005. He left the House to run for the U.S. Senate in 2004, losing the race to Republican Tom Coburn. After leaving Congress, he served as CEO of Cherokee Nation Businesses and later became president of the University of Tulsa, a position he held before leaving in 2025 to focus on technology policy and advocacy.

A potential presidential campaign would give Carson an opportunity to bring his concerns about technology regulation into a national political contest. The issue is already emerging as a point of debate among Democrats, particularly as concerns about data centers, employment disruption, and the influence of major technology companies have become more prominent.

Carson has also previously criticized his party's difficulty connecting with working-class voters and communities outside major metropolitan areas. His background in Oklahoma politics and his experience representing a traditionally conservative congressional district could become part of his message if he enters the race.

Carson has not formally announced a presidential campaign. However, his reported interest comes as Democratic political organizations and potential candidates begin positioning themselves for the 2028 nomination contest.