A recent CBS News poll reveals that most Americans doubt the U.S. government will enact policies to ensure artificial intelligence (AI) is used responsibly. The survey also indicates widespread public concern about AI’s impact on employment.
What happened
The CBS News/YouGov poll, conducted May 13-15, 2026, surveyed 2,064 adults nationwide and found that about two-thirds of Americans believe government policy will probably or certainly fail to regulate AI appropriately. This skepticism spans various demographics, including age groups and education levels. Both Democrats and independents largely share this view, while Republicans are split.
In addition to doubts about regulation, many respondents expressed concern that AI will reduce the number of jobs available in the U.S. A majority across age groups expect AI to lead to job losses, although younger Americans are slightly less pessimistic—possibly due to higher familiarity and usage of AI technologies.
When asked why AI companies promote the widespread use of AI, most respondents believe companies aim to increase their control over the technology and replace human workers. A smaller majority also identified motives such as advancing scientific and medical research or making everyday tasks easier.
Why it matters
The poll underscores a significant trust gap between the public and the government’s ability to manage AI risks. As AI technologies advance rapidly, concerns about job displacement and corporate motivations highlight the need for effective oversight. Public skepticism may influence pressure on policymakers to develop clearer, enforceable AI regulations.
The perception that AI companies prioritize power and workforce replacement over societal benefits could complicate efforts to introduce balanced AI governance that encourages innovation while protecting workers and users.
Background
This survey builds on previous CBS News polls showing younger Americans tend to use AI more and feel more informed about the technology. The U.S. government has yet to enact comprehensive AI regulations, and debates continue over how to oversee the technology responsibly amid its rapid deployment across sectors. The poll’s margin of error is ±2.7 percentage points.
Sources
This article is based on reporting and publicly available information from the following source:
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