The July Harvard Caps / Harris Poll finds that two-thirds of Americans—including majorities across political parties—say the U.S. should slow down AI development until there are stronger safeguards in place. 

And while 60% said the technology is a “huge advancement,” almost as many (57%) say it is more likely that AI will “degrade” society and create mass unemployment and not create added value or productivity.  

Job loss and power usage are primary dangers, the survey found.  

Sixty-two percent of voters say data centers use too much energy and water and provide too few benefits to local communities, including a majority across political parties. 

Fifty-three percent of voters say they would oppose a data center in their own neighborhood (Support: 25%), and the same percentage say such a facility should not be allowed near them even if the company provides local jobs, benefits, and protections. 

And 53% of voters say they are more likely to support a candidate who supports slowing down on AI development.  

More from this month’s poll can be found here.