Shane Smith Has Questions Congress Isn’t Ready for AI ft. Senator Bernie Sanders I Shane Smith Has Questions
Mar 9, 2026
Bernie Sanders, U.S. Senator from Vermont known for fighting income inequality and healthcare reform, warns about AI reshaping work and society. He highlights concentrated billionaire power driving rapid automation. He raises alarms about environmental costs of data centers and calls for slowing development and stronger democratic safeguards.
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AI Is Being Driven By A Tiny Wealthy Elite
- A handful of ultra-wealthy tech leaders are the main drivers of the AI revolution.
- Bernie Sanders names Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Bill Gates, Larry Ellison and Peter Thiel as pushing unprecedented AI investment and influence.
AI Could Replace Many Jobs Far Faster Than Past Revolutions
- AI and robotics could replace huge swaths of jobs quickly and at scale unlike past industrial shifts.
- Sanders warns accountants, lawyers, truck drivers, warehouse and gig workers face near-term automation risk because machines cost less and work 24/7.
Start Planning Now For Workers Displaced By AI
- Do start a national conversation and policy planning around how to support workers displaced by AI.
- Sanders stresses planning for impacts on work, taxes, Social Security, Medicare and how society gives people meaning without employment.