‘Slow this thing down’: Sanders warns US has no clue about speed and scale of coming AI revolution | US news

The AI Revolution: Are We Prepared for a Future Transformed?

Senator Bernie Sanders recently warned that both Congress and the American public are woefully unprepared for the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence. Speaking at Stanford University alongside Congressman Ro Khanna, Sanders described the current moment as “the most dangerous moment in the modern history of this country,” emphasizing the need for urgent policy action to “slow this thing down.”

A Tsunami of Change: The Speed of AI Development

The core concern isn’t simply the existence of AI, but the speed at which it’s developing. Unlike the industrial revolution, which unfolded over a century, artificial labour has the potential to reshape the economy in less than a decade. This unprecedented pace is what’s causing alarm among policymakers like Sanders. He highlighted projections indicating AI and robotics could eliminate tens of millions of jobs in the coming decade, impacting roles from truck drivers to white-collar positions.

The Rise of Tech Billionaires and the “New Gilded Age”

Congressman Ro Khanna echoed Sanders’s concerns, characterizing the current situation as a “new gilded age” dominated by tech billionaires. He noted that these leaders appear to view themselves as “heroic conquerors,” a sentiment reportedly shared directly with Khanna during meetings with “senior leaders” at prominent tech companies. This concentration of power and wealth is a central theme in Sanders’s broader critique of economic inequality.

Calls for a Moratorium and Alternative Approaches

Sanders has called for a moratorium on the expansion of AI data centres as a way to “slow down the revolution and protect workers” while policymakers catch up. This proposal aims to provide breathing room for society to adapt to the changes brought about by AI. Khanna, while not supporting a moratorium, advocates for a “Singapore model” for data centre growth, prioritizing renewable energy and water efficiency.

Impact on the labour Force and Beyond

The potential impact of AI extends far beyond the labour market. Sanders expressed concern about the effects on personal wellbeing and human interaction, citing a Valentine’s Day special offering “AI buddies” as an example of growing dependence on artificial intelligence for emotional support. He questioned the long-term consequences of such reliance and the potential loss of work as a defining aspect of life.

Public Concerns and the Future of Work

Public opinion reflects these anxieties. A 2025 Pew Research centre survey found that 64% of Americans believe AI will lead to fewer jobs over the next 20 years, with only 17% anticipating a positive impact. This widespread concern underscores the need for a serious public debate about the future of work and the role of AI in society.

The Core Question: Who Benefits?

The fundamental question, as Sanders put it, is whether the benefits of AI will accrue to a handful of billionaires or to the general public. Tech leaders argue that AI will drive productivity, innovation, and new employment opportunities, as has been the case with previous technological advancements. However, critics contend that the unprecedented speed and scale of the current changes threaten to exacerbate inequality.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a moratorium on AI data centres? A temporary halt to the construction of new facilities that house the massive computing power needed to run AI systems.
• What is the “Singapore model” for data centres? An approach that emphasizes renewable energy and water efficiency in the development and operation of data centres.
• What are the main concerns about AI and the job market? The potential for widespread job displacement due to automation.
• What is the role of government in regulating AI? Policymakers are debating how to impose guardrails on the technology to protect workers, promote fairness, and ensure public safety.

Pro Tip: Stay informed about AI developments by following reputable news sources and research organizations. Understanding the technology is the first step towards navigating its impact.

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