On Sunday, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) warned that rapid advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics could eliminate millions of jobs. At the same time, Congress remains unprepared to address the economic and social consequences.
AI Job Loss Warning
Sanders criticized lawmakers and the AI industry in a post on X, arguing that Congress has failed to take meaningful action to protect workers who emerging technologies could displace.
"Is Congress doing anything to help the millions of workers who could lose their jobs to AI and robotics? No," Sanders wrote.
He added, "They're intimidated by the hundreds of millions the AI industry is pouring into super PACs."
He continued, "We must ban super PACs and crack down on corruption."
In a video clip shared alongside the post, Sanders pointed to warnings from tech leaders about the disruptive potential of AI and automation.
"You hear people like Musk himself saying that, you know, AI and robotics is going to wipe out all work, all jobs," Sanders said.
He added, "So what the hell happens to billions of people who no longer have work or can't find other jobs?"
AI Job Fears Vs Growth Debate
Earlier, Apollo Global Management (NYSE: APO) Chief Economist Torsten Sløk said there was no evidence AI was causing widespread job losses, pointing to continued hiring and rising demand for AI-related work.
He argued the AI investment boom was supporting employment and economic growth.
Separately, David Sacks endorsed an opinion by David Solomon arguing that fears of mass unemployment from AI are overstated.
Solomon said AI was more likely to transform work than eliminate it, estimated it could automate roughly 25% of work hours over the next decade, and pointed to historical technological shifts where job creation ultimately outpaced job losses.
Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) said AI was rapidly reshaping the workforce, energy systems and economic competitiveness, warning that policymakers must ensure workers are not left behind.