Majority of Americans wary of AI impact, poll shows

A recent survey conducted by ABC News, The Washington Post, and Ipsos reveals that 57% of American adults believe artificial intelligence (AI) is harmful to society, according to reports from local stations including 800wvhu.iheart.com and 1360kktx.iheart.com.

The poll highlights concerns about AI-related risks, with 73% of respondents fearing hacking of secure systems and 65% worried about significant job losses due to AI technologies.

Only about one-third of Americans think AI will simplify daily tasks, and just 20% believe it will boost productivity. Younger Americans tend to view AI more negatively, with 65% of those under 30 seeing it as harmful compared to 53% of those aged 40 and older.

Political views influence perceptions: 63% of Democrats and 58% of independents see AI as detrimental, while Republicans are more divided, with 51% viewing AI as beneficial. The poll also shows 66% oppose building new data centers, especially in local communities.

The survey indicates a general distrust in both major political parties to manage AI issues effectively, with about half of respondents expressing no trust in either party. President Donald Trump faces criticism for his AI policies, with 67% disapproving his approach.

The poll was conducted from October 9 to 13, 2026, surveying 2,545 U.S. adults with a margin of error of plus or minus 2 percentage points.