Former President Barack Obama addressed a private fundraiser in New York City, urging Democrats to prioritize artificial intelligence (AI) in their political agenda ahead of the midterms and the 2028 presidential election. He warned that AI could become dangerous without proper oversight due to concerns about jobs, privacy, and data centers.
Speaking with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., Obama highlighted the rapid development of AI in private sectors. He cautioned that without control, this could pose risks. However, with appropriate management, AI holds the potential to benefit society by accelerating drug development and contributing to a clean energy future.
“This is something that is moving very fast in private hands, and if we don’t get on top of it, I think it can be dangerous,” said Obama. “If we do get on top of it, I do think it’s beneficial.”
Amy Kremer, RNC member and Humans First Chairwoman, agreed on the need to understand AI’s risks and benefits. However, she opposed expanding federal government or tech company control over AI. Kremer emphasized that while AI offers opportunities, regulations should protect Americans and maintain U.S. global leadership in innovation.
Recent Fox News polling reveals high voter resistance to AI infrastructure. A July poll showed 70% of voters opposed AI data centers in their communities, reflecting growing concerns over data centers, jobs, and privacy.
At the fundraiser, Obama advised Jeffries to prepare Democrats to prioritize AI policy if they gain House control. This should involve developing a clear public framework. He also suggested that 2028 presidential candidates focus on AI, addressing potential job displacement and effects on children.
Republicans are divided on the data center issue, despite former President Donald Trump’s support for expanding them. Trump’s administration released a national AI policy framework in March, aimed at maintaining U.S. competition with China while addressing free speech, child safety, and energy costs.
“The only reason that communities throughout the U.S.A. should not want Data Centers is if they want to end up being backwards and poor,” Trump stated.
The debate intensified when Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei suggested slowing down AI development, a call supported by Elon Musk and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman.
Hakeem Jeffries expressed support for Obama’s position, criticizing Republicans for lacking decisive action on AI. He indicated that House Democrats are preparing an AI policy framework, expected to be released this fall.
Fox News Digital has reached out to the White House and Palantir for comments but hasn’t received responses.
CJ Womack, an associate editor at Fox News, emphasizes the impact of journalism on politics and culture. With a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a minor in Journalism from Long Beach State University, CJ reports on these vital issues.
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