Americans want AI regulation. Lawmakers are listening-slowly.
Fewer than 2 in 10 Americans expect artificial intelligence to benefit the country over the next decade, according to a survey by the Annenberg Public Policy Center at the University of Pennsylvania. More than twice as many predict negative outcomes.
The findings matter for government officials navigating a bipartisan demand for action. Nearly two-thirds of respondents-including majorities of both parties-say the government has done "too little" to regulate AI.
Where the public sees problems
The survey of 1,330 adults found a plurality expects AI to hurt the economy, household utility costs, and mental health. One bright spot: 57% believe the technology will improve medical research.
Data center construction has become a flashpoint. Just 21% of respondents support building new data centers in their area, while 49% oppose them. Concerns center on energy costs and grid strain.
Politicians respond to pressure
President Donald Trump initially favored light regulation to compete with China on AI development. He is now reportedly considering government oversight of new AI models, according to the New York Times.
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro courted Amazon and other companies to build data centers in the state. More recently, he called on developers to supply their own energy or pay for new generation capacity.
The shift reflects broader political calculation. Democrats and Republicans showed near-identical skepticism about how their opposing party would handle AI regulation, with 22% from each party saying the other side would perform "about the same."
The opening for elected officials
Bipartisan concern about AI creates an opportunity for either party to gain ground if they convince voters they have the right approach, according to University of Pennsylvania professor Matt Levendusky.
For government professionals tasked with developing policy on this issue, understanding both public sentiment and the technical realities is essential. An AI learning path for policy makers can help officials make informed decisions grounded in how the technology actually works.
The survey carries a margin of error of plus or minus 3.5 percentage points and was released six months before midterm elections that will determine control of Congress and statehouses.
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