While tech giants continue pouring billions of dollars into AI development and infrastructure, recent surveys indicate that many Americans are deeply concerned about the pace of AI advancement, its impact, and the lack of clear regulations governing its use.
Americans Increasingly Worried About AI’s Rapid Growth
Several recent surveys and public reactions reveal rising resistance to AI across the United States. According to reports highlighted by Semafor, nearly 70% of Americans believe AI technology is advancing too quickly.
Meanwhile, more than half of the respondents said they hold negative views about it. The concern appears especially strong among younger people, with only 18% saying they feel hopeful about AI’s future. The growing discomfort comes at a time when companies such as Amazon, Google, Microsoft and Meta are investing heavily in AI systems, data centers, and automation technologies.
Growing fear over AI’s impact on jobs
Americans are becoming increasingly pessimistic about the impact artificial intelligence could have on employment and future job opportunities. A poll released by Quinnipiac University found that nearly 70% of Americans believe advances in AI technology are likely to reduce the number of jobs available across different industries.
The survey also revealed growing personal anxiety among workers, with around 30% of respondents saying they are worried their own jobs could eventually become obsolete.
Businesses shift AI focus from cost-cutting to growth
Despite growing public concerns, businesses across the world are accelerating their AI strategies. New research by global technology consultancy Thoughtworks found that companies are increasingly viewing AI not just as a tool for reducing costs, but as a major driver of innovation and growth.
The study surveyed 3,500 IT decision-makers and business executives, along with 3,500 consumers across countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, India, Brazil, Singapore and Australia. According to the findings, 77% of business leaders have shifted their AI priorities toward growth and innovation, while among large enterprises, the figure rises to 92%.
Globally, 27% of executives expect AI to generate revenue growth of up to 10% within the next year. Optimism appears strongest in India and Brazil, where nearly half of business leaders anticipate more than 15% within the next five years.
Strong demand for AI regulations
Even as businesses expand AI adoption, there is overwhelming public support for stronger regulation. Nearly 97% of Americans surveyed agreed that AI safety and security should be governed by rules and regulations. But opinions differ on who should be responsible for creating those safeguards.
Around 54% of respondents believe the US government should establish regulations for private companies developing AI technologies, while a similar number feel technology companies themselves should collaborate to create a shared framework of rules.
It’s time Congress listened to them
On Tuesday, Bernie Sanders pointed to recent polling data reflecting growing public concern over the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence and called on the government to act.
In a post shared on X, the Vermont senator highlighted rising anxiety among Americans regarding AI’s impact on industries, jobs and public safety. “70% of Americans think AI is moving too fast,” Sanders wrote, adding that “77% think entire industries will be eliminated” while “97% say AI safety should be subject to rules.”
70% of Americans think AI is moving too fast.
77% think entire industries will be eliminated.
97% say AI safety should be subject to rules.
Maybe, just maybe, it’s time Congress listened to the American people — not just the billionaires pushing it — and regulated AI.
— Bernie Sanders (@BernieSanders) May 19, 2026
“Maybe, just maybe, it’s time Congress listened to the American people — not just the billionaires pushing it — and regulated AI,” he added.
