Policy Briefs

Rainey Center conducted survey research to help understand how voters feel about artificial intelligence and what, if any, regulatory approach they would support. We find that voters have deep concerns about a number of aspects of artificial intelligence developments and support an active public sector approach to regulation, rather than embracing a hands off approach.‍We find that voters are both concerned about the national security and societal implications of artificial intelligence. Voters are worried about the possibility that artificial intelligence is used by foreign adversaries but are also concerned that artificial intelligence will disrupt American society in worrying ways, such as the advent of “AI boyfriends” and “AI girlfriends.”

Without having income derived from investments it becomes increasingly difficult to move up income classes, retire, or build any wealth. Increasing market access for the Black population is vital to any plan for improvement in economic standings. Technology changes have allowed more people to access the stock market, loans, and other banking services, but there are well-intended policies that can hinder this growth. These tools are part of the foundation on which upward economic mobility is deeply reliant. If future regulation and efforts are not coordinated, gains in this area could be reversed.

For the majority of Americans, their most valuable asset is their primary residence. But Black Americans have historically been at a disadvantage, given restrictions on land inheritance, redlining, and discrimination in lending practices. Overcoming these historical disadvantages and applying lessons from modern successes to a broader audience is challenging but necessary.

There are a number of bipartisan ideas that would improve our democracy: counting ballots more quickly, mandating that all ballot counting machines are American-made and passing voter ID requirements. To explore the viability of these proposals, the Rainey Center fielded a national survey of registered voters. We find that voters overwhelmingly support bipartisan democracy reform policies.‍

Rainey Center recently fielded national polling exploring voter attitudes towards a streamlined permitting process. We find that voters from both parties agree that there is too much red tape preventing the development of new infrastructure. Voters support new legislation, like the legislation from Senator Manchin and Barrasso to streamline American energy infrastructure.