Many Americans pessimistic about AI’s impact—and want more regulation

IOD National Survey, Feb.-March 2026. N = 1,330, MOE = +/- 3.49. Credit: Annenberg Public Policy Center
Data centers and job concerns
As AI data centers proliferate across the country, drawing scrutiny from communities concerned about energy costs and local impact, the survey finds that 49% of Americans oppose new data center construction in their area, including 31% who strongly oppose it. Only 21% support it, and 30% are neutral. Among those who are currently employed, 41% say they are somewhat or very worried about losing their job or having their hours reduced due to AI, with Democrats (50%) expressing more concern than independents (41%) and Republicans (32%).

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Download the topline and the survey methodology.

Provided by Annenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania