AI sentiment shifts negative in midterms

Chris Borick, a political science professor at Lehigh University, says artificial intelligence has become a major issue in several midterm races over the last few months. He notes that the political rhetoric surrounding the technology has changed sharply compared to other innovations.

Historically, voters viewed new technology as a positive force for the political economy, Borick explained. That dynamic shifted in the past year. Candidates now take a more neutral or negative stance on AI.

"We like tech traditionally as part of our political economy. That’s really changed in the last year, where you see a much more neutral and sometimes negative political position on AI," Borick said.

The shift is visible in both Republican and Democratic primaries. Borick stated that the political calculus has turned from positive to negative in red and blue states following public backlash. He attributed this to growing worries about the economy, society, and local communities.

"That’s picking up on the broader public attitudes and concerns regarding AI, its effect on society, its effect on the economy and effects on their communities. And that’s really popped in this election cycle," Borick said.

Shobita Parthasarathy, a public policy professor at the University of Michigan, observes distinct differences in how the two parties address the topic. She noted that Republicans have maintained close ties with AI companies for more than a year. Consequently, Republican candidates often focus on the cost of the technology.

Parthasarathy said Republicans generally avoid discussing the wider implications of AI. They are also less likely to propose a moratorium on development.

"I do think that the Republicans have been over the last year plus, have been in a much more close position with the AI companies," Parthasarathy said. "And so what you find, I think in general, is that they are trying to talk more about the cost issue. They generally are not talking about the broader issues. They are trying to limit the discussion. They may or they may be less likely to talk about a moratorium."

Borick added that opposition to AI can cut across traditional party lines. At the local level, conservatives, liberals, Republicans, and Democrats often unite in opposition to data centers. He said this cross-party alignment creates the potential for political realignment.

"And when that happens, you have the potential for some political realignments that we might be experiencing," Borick said.

A recent poll of Iowa and Ohio voters published by SEMAFOR found that the vast majority of respondents want greater regulation of artificial intelligence.