Americans Prioritize AI Control and Worker Protection

A significant majority of Americans, 64%, believe that artificial intelligence is developing "too fast," according to a new poll conducted by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. This sentiment indicates widespread concern across the political spectrum regarding the rapid advancement of AI technologies. In contrast, 27% of U.S. adults feel the pace of development is "about right," while a smaller segment, 8%, believes it is moving "too slow." The poll highlights a growing apprehension about the potential for advanced AI models to operate beyond human control and cause harm, a scenario previously confined to science fiction but now a pressing concern. Even leaders within the companies developing these frontier AI models have voiced calls for a pause to allow governmental regulations to catch up. This concern is echoed by the public, with approximately 8 in 10 U.S. adults deeming it "extremely" or "very" important for the U.S. government to ensure AI remains under human command. Concurrently, these adults express a similar level of urgency for the government to prioritize the protection of the nation's workforce from the potential impacts of AI. Beyond control and worker safety, most U.S. adults also consider minimizing environmental damage and fostering economic growth as highly important objectives related to AI. Promoting technological innovation is seen as important by about half of respondents, and slightly fewer view competing with China in AI development as a top priority. The poll also revealed bipartisan concern regarding the speed of AI's progress, yet few Americans perceive either major political party as having a distinct advantage in managing artificial intelligence. Former President Donald Trump received a low rating for his handling of AI issues, with 67% of U.S. adults disapproving of his performance. Stephanie Stewart, a junior-high science teacher from Sunset, Utah, expressed frustration with Trump's stance against AI regulation, stating that the current approach lacks comprehensive management and instead allows for unchecked development. The poll's findings underscore a public desire for proactive governance and safety measures as AI technology continues its rapid evolution, with a clear emphasis on human oversight and the well-being of the labor force.