Former President Barack Obama urged Democrats to prioritize artificial intelligence (AI) in their political agenda during a private fundraiser in New York City. He highlighted AI’s potential dangers if not properly regulated, as concerns about jobs, privacy, and data centers grow among voters.
Speaking alongside House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., Obama cautioned party donors and lawmakers that without oversight, AI could become uncontrolled. He emphasized the need for regulation to ensure safe development, noting its benefits for drug development and clean energy. AI, according to Obama, could accelerate progress in curing diseases and advancing sustainable practices.
Amy Kremer, RNC member and Humans First Chairwoman, agreed on the importance of recognizing AI’s risks alongside its benefits. However, she resisted expanding federal control or letting technology companies self-regulate. Kremer stressed the necessity for protective measures that do not hinder American innovation, especially against competition like China.
Obama’s warning coincides with polling from Fox News Digital showing voter opposition to AI data centers. A July poll revealed that 70% of registered voters opposed such constructions in their communities, with only 30% in favor.
AI has also split Republicans as midterm debates center around data centers. While some Republican candidates seek to limit new projects, President Donald Trump supports expanding data-center development, emphasizing rapid AI progress to compete with China.
Obama encouraged Jeffries to prepare the Democratic party to make AI policy a public issue should they gain control of the House. Obama urged future 2028 presidential candidates to develop clear plans addressing AI’s impact, especially on jobs and children.
Public worries extend beyond data centers. An April Fox News poll showed 63% of voters considered AI detrimental to privacy, with 56% believing it harms U.S. job creation. Only 21% viewed it as beneficial to employment.
Concerns grew as Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei advocated for slowing the development race, warning of advances outpacing human understanding. His sentiment found support from Elon Musk and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman.
Jeffries backed Obama’s call for action, contrasting Republican approaches. He stated Democrats must act on AI and criticized Republicans for neglecting governance for the American people. House Democrats are working on an AI policy framework anticipated to be shared this fall after Jeffries’ review.