As more Americans adopt AI tools, fewer say they can trust the results

A new Quinnipiac University poll reveals a profound and growing contradiction in America's relationship with artificial intelligence. While adoption is climbing—with only 27% reporting they've never used AI tools, down from 33% in April 2025—trust is cratering. A striking 76% of the nearly 1,400 respondents said they trust AI rarely or only sometimes, and a mere 6% are "very excited" about its future. This suggests a pragmatic, reluctant adoption where tools like ChatGPT and Claude are used for research, writing, and data analysis out of necessity, not enthusiasm.

The poll highlights deep-seated anxieties about AI's societal impact. A significant 70% believe AI advancements will decrease job opportunities, a notable increase from 56% last year, with Gen Z being the most pessimistic at 81%. Furthermore, 65% of Americans oppose building AI data centers in their communities, citing concerns over electricity and water use. Interestingly, this macro-level fear doesn't fully translate to personal risk: only 30% of employed Americans are concerned AI will make their own job obsolete, though this is up from 21%. The data paints a picture of a public that is functionally engaging with AI while harboring significant distrust and dread about its long-term consequences for the economy and infrastructure.