A Populist Backlash Over AI Is Brewing in America
Securing American primacy in artificial intelligence (AI) has become a central aim of the Trump Administration during its second term. The administration is focused on preserving America’s lead in AI and promoting its preferred AI stack—which includes chips, software, data, and cloud infrastructure—while extending the country’s military, intelligence, and economic dominance.
To achieve these goals, the administration advocates for policies that prioritize innovation over regulation, pushing for rapid infrastructure development necessary for AI, such as data centers, high-capacity power supplies, and fiber networks. On his first day back in the White House, Trump began this initiative by rolling back AI safety regulations established during the Biden era. His July 2025 AI Action Plan outlined a strategy for achieving global AI dominance through accelerated innovation and reduced regulation. Moreover, an executive order signed in December aims to limit states’ ability to regulate AI, threatening federal funding to those with stringent laws that could hinder innovation.
Public Opposition and Concerns
A significant portion of the American public opposes this laissez-faire approach. Growing resistance against data centers, driven by concerns over increased electricity and water costs and pollution, signals a potential populist backlash. Politicians are responding to this sentiment, with bipartisan calls for tech companies to contribute their fair share of utility costs, including from Trump himself. If 2026 becomes a landmark year for AI, widespread public concerns regarding its impacts on the economy, politics, and human relationships could consolidate into a formidable political force.
AI policy is emerging as a significant topic in American political discourse, particularly regarding affordability and job security. Evidence of this importance was seen in state-level elections in Virginia, New Jersey, and Georgia last year. The upcoming midterm elections are expected to further highlight this shift, and by the time voters head to the polls for the 2028 presidential election, AI will likely be a defining issue.
Public Sentiment Towards AI
While public opinion polling on AI remains limited, existing data reveals substantial anxiety. According to Gallup, six in ten Americans express distrust towards AI, with a consensus on the necessity of safety and security regulations. A Pew Research Center survey found that half of Americans view AI with more concern than excitement, with 57% rating its societal risks as high, compared to only a quarter who see its benefits as significant. YouGov reports that 77% of individuals worry AI could pose a threat to humanity.
There exists a stark contrast between AI experts, who exhibit optimism regarding AI’s potential benefits across various sectors, and the general public, who harbor skepticism. Research conducted among over 300 Americans, particularly in swing states like Arizona, Michigan, and Georgia, revealed that while many recognize AI’s role in enhancing American power, they are primarily concerned about its long-term impacts on their families and communities. Worries about inadequate AI regulation, economic inequality, and the spread of misinformation were prevalent.
Political Implications
The growing debates surrounding data center construction highlight the political ramifications of AI policy. For instance, during Virginia’s gubernatorial election, concerns over electricity costs associated with data centers were prominent, given that some facilities consume as much electricity as 100,000 households. In Georgia, Democrats gained seats on the state utility regulatory commission amid similar worries, while opposition in Arizona has successfully blocked several major data center projects.
As AI’s deployment accelerates and workforce disruptions unfold, job elimination may become a critical political issue. The rapid pace of technological advancement could lead to a populist backlash against AI, particularly as economic realities clash with national security arguments advocating a zero-regulation environment. Voters affected by job losses or rising utility bills may not resonate with narratives emphasizing the need to outrun China in AI development.
The New Politics of AI
Current political dynamics reflect a lack of clarity from both major parties on AI policy. Despite President Trump’s anti-regulation stance and his ties to Big Tech, Democrats have not capitalized on this issue, even though majorities in both parties favor stricter AI regulations. To effectively engage voters, Democrats must develop a more nuanced political discourse around AI policy, acknowledging the tangible difficulties and anxieties faced by Americans.
A balanced approach prioritizing consumer protection and ethical considerations, without stifling innovation, is crucial. A potential new Democratic platform could include:
- Regulation: Implementing comprehensive regulations addressing data center construction, privacy protections, trust and safety standards, and legal liabilities to ensure responsible AI development.
- Social Policy: Establishing government programs to support individuals impacted by AI, including retraining for displaced workers and stabilizing electricity prices affected by data centers.
- National Security: Maintaining America’s AI advantages through export controls that restrict access to advanced AI technologies for countries like China.
Ultimately, the AI race represents a pivotal strategic competition. However, the interplay between technological advancement and public sentiment will shape the future of AI politics in America. Failure to adapt to this reality could trigger a populist backlash that undermines the country’s ambitions in AI.
