Democrats and Republicans find common ground on AI unease
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · May 3
Democrats and Republicans find common ground on AI unease
5 articles · Updated · The New York Times · May 3
Pew found 50% of Republicans and 51% of Democrats were more concerned than excited about AI, while an NBC poll said most voters see risks outweighing benefits.
Lawmakers in both parties are beginning to respond as fears grow over jobs, electricity prices, education, privacy and mental health, with data centres already sparking bipartisan local opposition.
The concern comes amid wider skepticism toward tech billionaires, prompting the industry to spend tens of millions of dollars on regulation fights, even as younger voters' earlier enthusiasm appears to be fading.
As AI drives electricity bills sky-high, who should foot the bill: tech giants or the public?
AI is creating a productivity boom, so why are recent graduates facing a hiring 'big freeze'?
Bipartisan AI Regulation in 2025-2026: Navigating Federal-State Conflicts and the 2026 Midterm Battleground
Overview
Between 2025 and 2026, the Trump administration pushed for a comprehensive federal AI law, releasing a National Policy Framework and an executive order empowering the Justice Department to challenge conflicting state laws. Meanwhile, all 50 states enacted diverse AI regulations addressing issues like child safety and data center impacts, creating a complex patchwork that burdens businesses. Bipartisan concerns over consumer protection and the environmental costs of AI infrastructure led to joint efforts such as the GRID Act. States resisted federal preemption, citing constitutional rights, prompting legislative responses like the GUARDRAILS Act. Public demand strongly favors a unified national AI policy, while activists and industry stakeholders agree on the need for balanced regulation that protects users without stifling innovation.