Growing Concerns Over AI's Impact on Employment and Trust

A recent Quinnipiac University poll conducted from March 19 to 23, 2026, reveals a significant shift in American attitudes toward artificial intelligence (AI). The survey, which included 1,397 adults, indicates that 70% of respondents believe advancements in AI will likely lead to a decrease in job opportunities, a notable increase from 56% in April 2025. Additionally, 30% of employed Americans expressed concern that AI could render their specific jobs obsolete, up from 21% the previous year.

Business InsiderBloombergQU Poll: Nearly 70% think AI will cut jobs with Gen Z most pessimisticAmericans are using AI more than ever, but only 21% trust it — and 70% now fear it will eliminate jobsFinger Lakes 1TechCrunch

The poll highlights a growing skepticism about AI's benefits. Fifty-five percent of Americans feel that AI will do more harm than good in their daily lives, a rise from 44% in the previous year. Concerns extend to education, where 64% believe AI will negatively impact learning, and to healthcare, where opinions are more divided—43% think AI will be harmful, while 45% see potential benefits.

QU Poll: Nearly 70% think AI will cut jobs with Gen Z most pessimisticFinger Lakes 1BloombergAs Research Reports on AI Abound, Here’s One that Says Americans Do Not Trust AITechCrunchAmericans are using AI more than ever, but only 21% trust it — and 70% now fear it will eliminate jobsBusiness Insider

Despite increased adoption of AI tools—51% of respondents reported using AI for research and other tasks—trust in these technologies remains low. Seventy-six percent of Americans indicated they trust AI-generated information only some of the time or not at all. This contradiction between usage and trust reflects a broader unease about the implications of AI in society.

As Research Reports on AI Abound, Here’s One that Says Americans Do Not Trust AITechCrunchAmericans are using AI more than ever, but only 21% trust it — and 70% now fear it will eliminate jobsFinger Lakes 1QU Poll: Nearly 70% think AI will cut jobs with Gen Z most pessimistic

Generational differences are evident in the poll results. Among Gen Z respondents, 81% anticipate a decrease in job opportunities due to AI, the highest level of pessimism across age groups. Millennials and Gen X also show significant concern, with 71% and 67% respectively fearing job losses. In contrast, Baby Boomers exhibit slightly less concern, with 66% expecting job reductions.

QU Poll: Nearly 70% think AI will cut jobs with Gen Z most pessimistic

The poll underscores a demand for greater transparency and regulation regarding AI. Seventy-four percent of Americans believe the government is not doing enough to regulate AI, while 76% feel businesses lack transparency about their AI practices. Additionally, 65% oppose the construction of AI data centers in their communities, primarily due to concerns over electricity costs and environmental impact.

Americans are using AI more than ever, but only 21% trust it — and 70% now fear it will eliminate jobs

Experts from Quinnipiac University have commented on the findings, emphasizing the need for caution. Tamilla Triantoro, a professor of business analytics, noted that while Americans are adopting AI out of necessity, they are doing so with significant hesitation. “Americans are not rejecting AI outright, but they are sending a warning,” she stated, highlighting the need for more regulation and transparency.

As Research Reports on AI Abound, Here’s One that Says Americans Do Not Trust AI

• “The contradiction between use and trust of AI is striking. Americans are clearly adopting AI, but they are doing so with deep hesitation, not deep trust,” — Chetan Jaiswal, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Computer Science, Quinnipiac University

Americans are using AI more than ever, but only 21% trust it — and 70% now fear it will eliminate jobs

• “A moratorium will give us time — time to understand the risks, time to protect working families, time to defend our democracy and time to ensure that this technology works for all of us, not just the few,” — Bernie Sanders, U.S. Senator

The Hill

The Quinnipiac poll illustrates a complex relationship between Americans and AI, characterized by rising adoption amid declining trust and increasing fears about job security. As AI continues to evolve, public sentiment suggests a pressing need for regulatory frameworks that address these concerns while fostering responsible innovation.

Americans are using AI more than ever, but only 21% trust it — and 70% now fear it will eliminate jobs