How is America feeling about the AI boom? This new poll reveals the data
Worries around artificial intelligence cross party lines, with the vast majority of Americans saying the U.S. government should prioritize keeping AI under human control and protecting workers.A new poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research finds that most Americans,…

A new poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research highlights American public opinion on the development and regulation of artificial intelligence, revealing widespread concerns about its rapid advancement and the need for government oversight.
What happened
The article reports on a poll conducted by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, which surveyed 2,140 U.S. adults to gauge public opinion on AI development, regulation, and government responsibility. The findings indicate that a majority of Americans are concerned about the speed of AI advancement and the need for human control, with significant bipartisan agreement on certain priorities.
Why it matters
Understanding public sentiment on AI is crucial for policymakers, developers, and businesses as they navigate the challenges of regulation, workforce protection, and ethical considerations. The poll highlights the need for balanced approaches that address both innovation and societal concerns.
- Public concern about AI's rapid development is widespread, with a majority believing it's moving too fast.
- Bipartisan agreement exists on the need for human control and worker protection, but there are differences in other priorities.
- Americans have low confidence in both major political parties to handle AI issues effectively.
The bigger picture
The poll underscores the growing public demand for government oversight of AI, which could influence future policy decisions and regulatory frameworks. It also highlights the importance of addressing workforce and ethical concerns as AI continues to evolve.
The AP-NORC poll reveals that Americans are deeply concerned about the pace and implications of AI development, emphasizing the need for government action to ensure it remains under human control and protects workers, while also addressing environmental and economic considerations.
FAQ
What percentage of Americans think AI is developing too fast?
64% of Americans believe AI is developing too fast, according to the poll.
What are the top priorities for the U.S. government regarding AI, according to the poll?
The top priorities are ensuring AI remains under human control and protecting workers, with many also emphasizing environmental harm and economic growth.
How do Republicans and Democrats differ in their views on AI priorities?
Republicans are more likely to prioritize economic growth and competition with China, while Democrats emphasize minimizing environmental harm.
This summary and analysis were generated with AI from the original article and may contain errors. Read the original for the full story.
Read the full story
Originally published by Fast Company AI on Oct 8, 2026.
Comments
Sign in to join the discussion.