Overview
- In a CNN interview, the Vermont senator called AI “the most consequential technology in the history of humanity” and said Congress has yet to hold a serious debate.
- He urged consideration of a pause on building new datacenters to slow development, pointing to grid strain and reports of higher electric bills in host communities.
- He warned of widespread job losses tied to automation and cited research including an MIT estimate that more than 11% of U.S. jobs could be displaced.
- He raised mental-health concerns about young people turning to AI companions for support and called for rigorous study of the technology’s effects.
- His remarks arrive as Republicans seek federal preemption of state AI rules and as Sen. Katie Britt advances the Guard Act to restrict AI companions for minors and require clear disclosures with potential criminal liability.