Americans Want AI Slowed, Not Stopped, Poll Finds

A new CBS News/YouGov poll finds most Americans worry AI could harm people, either acting independently or being misused by others, yet they oppose stopping development entirely. Instead, they favor slowing it down to manage risks. The survey shows pessimism outweighs optimism, with widespread concern about AI taking jobs, though many workers believe it will make their tasks easier. Americans want both companies and government to manage AI, with more support for government restrictions than promotion. Most believe the U.S. needs AI to remain competitive with China and see potential for medical and scientific breakthroughs. The poll surveyed 2,051 U.S. adults from September 16-18, 2026, with a margin of error of ±2.5 points.