Former President Barack Obama has encouraged Democrats to focus on artificial intelligence (AI) as a central issue in their political agenda. Speaking at a private fundraiser in New York City, Obama warned that AI could become “dangerous” without greater oversight, particularly since it is largely evolving in private hands. He stressed the importance of addressing voter concerns about jobs, privacy, and data centers before the upcoming midterms and the 2028 presidential race.
Obama, alongside House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, highlighted the potential risks and benefits of AI. He believes that with proper management, AI could revolutionize industries like drug development and clean energy. Conversely, without regulation, it could pose significant dangers. He urged Democrats to make AI policy a public issue if they gain control of the House.
“If we don’t get on top of it, I think it can be dangerous,” Obama stated. “If we do get on top of it, I do think it’s beneficial.”
Amy Kremer, Chairwoman of Humans First, agreed that policymakers need to be aware of AI’s potential while questioning the extent of government or corporate control. She emphasized the need for “guardrails” to protect Americans, maintain innovation, and ensure national security.
A Fox News poll in July revealed that 70% of registered voters opposed constructing AI data centers in their communities. Concerns over job loss and privacy persist, as seen in another poll where 63% of voters felt AI negatively impacts privacy and 56% believed it threatens job creation.
Obama’s call for a focused AI strategy contrasts with former President Donald Trump’s approach, which supports rapid AI development to keep the U.S. competitive with China. While Trump underscores the economic benefits of data centers, urging communities to embrace them, Obama calls for more stringent oversight.
Prospective 2028 presidential candidates are encouraged by Obama to develop clear plans dealing with AI-related job displacement and impacts on children. House Democrats, led by Jeffries, are working on an AI policy framework expected to be unveiled soon. The urgency of addressing AI advances was recently echoed by industry leaders like Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei, emphasizing the possible dangers if technological development outpaces human oversight.