The article is devoted to the analysis of the main approaches to digitalization and the implementation of “smart city” projects in the context of the transformation of the administrativestate management of democratic political systems. Considering the specifics of the neoliberal approach to management, the authors reveal the specifics of the theoretical conceptualization and implementation of the practice of the platform economy in the context of the consequences for the state, large business and society. With specific examples, the causes, features of the formation and implementation of “smart city” projects, as well as the public reaction to such actions by the authorities and society in democratic political systems are investigated.