Will AI Populism Decide the 2028 Election? | Jasmine Sun

Jasmine Sun, a writer on AI and politics for The Atlantic and The New York Times, defines AI populism as a growing backlash uniting unlikely groups—family-first conservatives, antitrust advocates, environmentalists—for AI regulation. Prompted by visible impacts like data centers in neighborhoods and job threats, it ranks 29th out of 39 issues in Blue Rose Research polling but rises faster than any other, often linking to top concerns like economy, jobs, and inflation.

Rise and Scale of AI Populism

AI populism gains traction because AI permeates daily life more than crypto did: ChatGPT is the fastest-growing app ever, data centers drive 30-40% of recent GDP growth and spark local protests, and workplaces push AI tools. Unlike crypto's niche appeal and confusing use, AI feels immediate. Polls show it trailing economy and inflation but accelerating, outpacing even Middle East war as a rising issue. Diverse coalitions form in D.C., from kids' safety advocates to states' rights supporters, protesting AI's disruption to jobs, land use, and communities. Sun notes AI CEOs like Sam Altman and Dario Amodei bolster critics by publicly warning of mass job loss—Altman of "painful transitions," Amodei of 20% unemployment—lending credibility where crypto leaders faced divided narratives.