75% of Americans fear the rise of artificial intelligence

Seventy-five percent of Americans view the development of artificial intelligence with fear and concern rather than enthusiasm, according to a CNN poll published on September 24, 2026. The survey indicates that 43% feel that concern very intensely, driven by the rapid pace of technological expansion and the proliferation of data centers across the country.

On the financial front, the poll finds that 48% of citizens perceive a negative effect of the technology on their own finances, compared with just 18% who see a positive impact. This economic pessimism is especially pronounced among lower-income groups, where those earning less than US$50,000 a year are more likely to suffer an adverse impact.

The unease is also reflected in the educational and employment divide surrounding automation. Half of adults without a college degree fear that technology will radically change their way of life, compared with 35% of those with higher education, underscoring the vulnerability of workers in the face of the economic uncertainty generated by the technology sector.

Given this scenario, roughly seven in 10 people believe the federal government is not doing enough to regulate the development of artificial intelligence. Demand for state intervention enjoys broad support, with 85% backing among Democrats, 67% among independents and 63% among Republicans.