American Perspectives on AI: Concerns About Job Market Impact and Government Regulation
Many Americans are concerned about the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the job market and are doubtful that the U.S. government will implement policies to ensure the appropriate use of this technology. This skepticism is prevalent across different age groups and education levels, with Democrats and independents sharing similar views while Republicans are more divided on the issue. The majority of Americans believe that government policies will not effectively regulate the use of AI, especially those who think AI will lead to job losses.
The reasons behind AI companies promoting the use of AI vary, with many Americans perceiving motives such as increasing their own power and replacing human workers with AI as primary drivers. Additionally, making scientific and medical advancements and simplifying tasks for individuals are also seen as reasons to encourage the use of AI. Despite these motivations, a significant portion of the population remains skeptical about the potential consequences of widespread AI adoption.
A majority of Americans anticipate that AI will result in a decrease in U.S. jobs, with both younger and older individuals sharing this concern, albeit to varying degrees. Younger Americans, who are generally more familiar with AI technology, are less likely to foresee job losses compared to their older counterparts. This generational difference may be attributed to younger people's higher usage and understanding of AI, as indicated by previous CBS News polling data.
The findings of this CBS News/YouGov survey, conducted with a nationally representative sample of 2,064 U.S. adults in May 2026, shed light on the prevailing attitudes towards AI and its potential impact on the workforce. Despite differing opinions on the role of AI in job displacement and government regulation, the overarching sentiment among Americans is one of uncertainty and apprehension regarding the future implications of AI technology.