{
  "id": 7837793,
  "title": "AI environmental concerns build as lawmakers grapple with tech panic",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/16/ai-environmental-concerns-build-as-lawmakers-grapple-with-tech-panic",
  "topic": "ai",
  "section": "AI",
  "published": "2026-09-16T17:16:47.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Axios",
    "slug": "axios",
    "url": "https://www.axios.com/2026/09/16/ai-concerns-congress-regulation"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "A new poll reveals that over half of Americans are extremely or very concerned about the environmental impacts of artificial intelligence (AI). This marks a significant increase, with more than ten percentage points rise from the previous year's data. The concern is widespread among the public, with Democrats more likely to express worry (65%) compared to Republicans (42%). Both parties acknowledge the potential negative societal impact of AI, but half of Republicans share this pessimistic view. Data centers required to power AI technology are also a source of concern, with seven in ten adults expressing at least some apprehension about electricity prices, power outages, and water supply.\n\nThe existential threat of AI destroying humanity is another pressing concern for many Americans. More than six in ten believe there is at least a moderate risk of this happening, according to a separate POLITICO Poll. Majorities across the political spectrum hold this viewpoint. However, there is a significant divide, with a plurality of Americans calling for a temporary halt to AI development. Despite calls for a slowdown, President Trump remains steadfast in his support for AI, advocating for strong and smart leadership to regulate the technology. Meanwhile, Congress is grappling with various AI-related initiatives, from bipartisan caucuses to legislation aimed at monitoring AI systems. Despite some opposition, over a hundred House Democrats have urged Speaker Mike Johnson to allocate time during the upcoming recess to vote on AI safeguards.",
  "summary": "Data: The AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research and the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago; Chart: Avery Lotz/Axios More than half of Americans are extremely or very concerned about the environmental impacts of AI, up more than ten percentage points from last year, per polling results out Wednesday. The big picture: It's just one area where Americans' AI concerns are…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}