Story perspectives

AI Sparks Job Anxiety as Layoffs Rise Among White-Collar Workers

2/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

White-collar workers in the United States feel growing anxiety about job security as AI reshapes the labor market.
Among college graduates seeking work, 98% are employed, while a record 25% are unemployed.
High-school graduates are finding jobs faster than their college counterparts.
Baker McKenzie and Salesforce have laid off hundreds of employees, signaling a hiring shift.
If AI leads to layoffs, the country may face structural unemployment and long-term joblessness.

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Story summary

White-collar workers in the United States feel growing anxiety about job security as AI reshapes the labor market.
Among college graduates seeking work, 98% are employed, while a record 25% are unemployed.
High-school graduates are finding jobs faster than their college counterparts.
Baker McKenzie and Salesforce have laid off hundreds of employees, signaling a hiring shift.
If AI leads to layoffs, the country may face structural unemployment and long-term joblessness.