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In a candid address at Stanford University, Senator Bernie Sanders urged for a halt on the expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) data centres, asserting that both Congress and the American populace are ill-prepared for the rapid advancements in AI technology. Following a series of meetings with leading tech executives in California, Sanders emphasised the urgent need for policy action to safeguard workers and slow down the relentless pace of AI development.
Urgent Call for Policy Intervention
During his remarks, Sanders articulated his belief that the United States is at a pivotal juncture in its relationship with technology. “The Congress and the American people are very unprepared for the tsunami that is coming,” he stated, underscoring the gravity of the situation. Accompanying him was Congressman Ro Khanna, who echoed these sentiments, describing the current era as a “new gilded age” dominated by powerful tech magnates. Khanna voiced concerns that these billionaires operate with a mindset akin to “heroic conquerors,” yet he cautioned that such perceptions do not reflect reality.
The specific tech leaders Sanders and Khanna met remain undisclosed, but Khanna noted that they engaged with “senior leaders” from the most influential firms in the industry. “It was vital for Senator Sanders to hear from tech leaders and for them to understand the concerns of working-class Americans,” Khanna remarked post-event.
Diverging Approaches to AI Regulation
While Sanders champions a moratorium on AI data centres to allow for time to craft appropriate regulations, Khanna advocates for a different approach. He proposes a “Singapore model” for AI growth, focusing on renewable energy and efficient water use without imposing a halt on development. In a speech aimed primarily at students, Khanna delineated seven principles designed to prevent the concentration of wealth and power in the hands of a few.
The event marked the culmination of Sanders’ California visit, which included a rally in Los Angeles where he condemned the excesses of the billionaire class. During this rally, he introduced a campaign for a ballot initiative proposing a one-time 5% tax on individuals with wealth exceeding $1 billion—a move that has already incited reactions from some affluent tech leaders.
The Societal Implications of AI
As he addressed the audience at Stanford, Sanders raised concerns about the broader implications of AI on human relationships and job security. He recounted a peculiar Valentine’s Day promotion from a Washington, D.C. restaurant that encouraged patrons to bring their “AI buddies,” which provoked laughter but also highlighted a troubling trend. “What is the long-term impact if we lose work as an important part of our lives?” he asked, provoking thought about the future of human interaction and emotional wellbeing in an increasingly automated world.
Sanders cited alarming projections indicating that AI and robotics could lead to the elimination of millions of jobs across various sectors, from transportation to fast food. Current polling reflects widespread public apprehension, with a 2025 Pew survey revealing that 64% of Americans believe AI will result in fewer jobs over the next two decades. In stark contrast, only 17% anticipate a positive impact from AI advancements.
The Dichotomy of Progress and Inequality
While proponents of AI argue that technological innovation will bolster productivity and create new job opportunities, critics like Sanders caution that the unprecedented speed of these changes poses a significant risk of exacerbating social inequality. He urged Washington and the public to engage in a meaningful dialogue about the future of work, suggesting that the benefits of AI must be distributed equitably. “AI and robotics are neither good nor bad,” he asserted. “The question is: will a handful of billionaires benefit from it, or will the general public benefit?”
Why it Matters
The conversation surrounding AI and its implications for society is becoming increasingly urgent. As policymakers grapple with the rapid evolution of technology, the potential for economic disruption and societal change looms large. Sanders’ advocacy for a moratorium highlights a critical juncture where the need for thoughtful regulation and ethical considerations must align with the pace of technological advancement. The outcome of this debate will not only shape the future of work but also determine whether the benefits of AI will enrich a select few or uplift society as a whole.