Washington Letter: Voters concerned about AI advancement, data center construction, polls show
Multiple polls indicate that U.S. voters are concerned about the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence and the construction of data centers in their communities. While economic issues remain paramount, a significant portion of the electorate supports pausing AI development and opposes data center construction. There is also broad bipartisan support for increased federal regulation of AI.
Recent polls reveal significant public concern among U.S. voters regarding the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and the proliferation of data centers, according to a "Washington Letter" from OSV News. A Politico Poll found that a plurality of U.S. adults, regardless of political affiliation, advocate for a pause in AI development, with many fearing the technology's potential to harm humanity. Separately, a New York Times/Siena poll indicated that 61% of voters oppose the construction of data centers supporting AI, although AI and data centers remain a minor issue compared to economic concerns.
Further demonstrating public sentiment, a CNN poll conducted by SSRS reported that 71% of Americans believe the federal government is not doing enough to regulate AI, showing bipartisan demand for action. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has established a new task force to engage with technology leaders and lawmakers, meeting with members of Congress to advocate for safety measures such as the Kids Online Safety Act.
Conversely, former President Donald Trump, in a speech to the U.N. General Assembly, dismissed calls to slow AI development, asserting that the U.S. should encourage rather than restrict it. He also announced a rebranding of AI as "superintelligence" in official U.S. documents. Cardinal Pietro Parolin of the Holy See, speaking at the same assembly, emphasized the necessity of grounding AI discussions in universal values and human dignity.