A majority of Americans express concern over the rapid pace of artificial intelligence (AI) development and emphasize the need for government oversight to maintain human control and protect workers, according to a recent poll by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.
The survey found that 64% of U.S. adults believe AI is advancing too quickly, while 27% view the speed as appropriate and 8% think it is too slow. The apprehension centers on the potential for powerful AI systems to operate beyond human control, a scenario once confined to science fiction but increasingly seen as a real risk. Leaders of AI companies have called for slowing development to allow regulatory measures to catch up, though former President Donald Trump has opposed such delays, citing concerns that China might gain a technological edge.
Approximately 80% of respondents rated it "extremely" or "very" important for the government to ensure AI remains under human control. An equal proportion is similarly focused on protecting American jobs from AI-driven disruption. Additional priorities include minimizing environmental damage and fostering economic growth, each seen as highly important by most adults. Meanwhile, about half prioritize promoting technological innovation, with slightly fewer emphasizing competition with China.
The poll highlights a bipartisan consensus on the speed of AI development and the need for worker protections. Stephanie Stewart, a junior-high science teacher from Sunset, Utah, voiced frustration with the current administration’s resistance to regulate AI. She said the lack of effective oversight allows companies too much freedom in AI development, raising concerns about its impacts on youth and privacy.
Truck driver Ron Theusch of Alden, Minnesota, cited potential job losses as his main worry, anticipating a future dominated by autonomous trucks that could threaten his livelihood. He referenced popular culture’s portrayal of AI risks but acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding AI’s trajectory.
Partisan divisions emerge on some secondary issues. Republicans tend to prioritize economic growth and international competition, particularly with China, more than Democrats do. Democrats, conversely, place greater emphasis on minimizing environmental harm. Younger Americans, notably those under 30, tend to be more concerned about AI’s rapid advancement than older respondents.
Despite widespread concern about AI, the poll revealed limited confidence in either political party’s ability to manage the issue effectively. Roughly 40% of respondents reported distrust in both the Democratic and Republican parties on AI matters. About 20% trust both equally, while the rest are divided between the two parties. Among partisans themselves, only around half believe their party is better equipped to handle AI, with nearly 30% seeing neither party as capable.
Stewart summarized this skepticism, noting a general perception that lawmakers in Washington prioritize their own interests over public welfare. “Until I see anything coming from anyone, I’m going to be like, ‘Yeah, no. You’re all just sitting there,’” she said.
The findings reflect growing public calls for cautious, balanced approaches to AI as its development continues to accelerate amid ongoing political debate and technological innovation.