The government hasn’t done enough to regulate AI, most Americans say in a new Penn survey

A nationally representative survey by the Annenberg Public Policy Center at the University of Pennsylvania found that most Americans are deeply concerned about artificial intelligence and believe the government has failed to regulate it adequately. Only 21% of respondents think AI will have a positive impact on the country in the next decade, while 46% expect negative consequences, particularly in areas like the economy, household costs, and mental health. Medical research was the sole exception, with 57% expressing optimism about its benefits. The survey, which polled 1,330 U.S. adults, revealed bipartisan skepticism: 66% said the government has done too little to regulate AI, with Democrats and Republicans largely agreeing on this point. Public opposition to AI data centers is also strong, as 49% of respondents opposed their construction in their local area, while just 21% supported it. The findings come six months ahead of the 2024 midterm elections, where AI has emerged as a key issue, sparking anxiety over job losses and rising energy costs. Political leaders, including former President Donald Trump and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, are responding to these concerns. Trump, who initially favored minimal regulation to compete with China, is now reportedly considering stricter oversight of new AI models. Meanwhile, Shapiro has pushed for private investment in data centers while urging developers to manage their own energy needs or fund new power generation. The survey also examined public perceptions of how Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris would handle AI regulation. While Democrats and Republicans disagreed on other issues, they were in near-unanimity (22% each) that Harris would perform similarly to Trump on AI oversight. The study highlights a rare bipartisan consensus on AI regulation, presenting an opportunity for either party to capitalize on public concern by proposing credible solutions. Researchers emphasized that the demand for regulation transcends politics, with Shawn Patterson Jr. noting that Americans are paying close attention to AI—and what they see worries them. The survey underscores growing public unease over AI’s unchecked development, particularly as its economic and social implications become more apparent.