Artificial intelligence is facing a surge in negative public sentiment in the United States, which could significantly impact companies like OpenAI and Anthropic as they prepare for initial public offerings (IPOs) [1]. This trend also poses challenges for major tech firms such as Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and Meta, collectively known as hyperscalers, who have committed approximately $700 billion this year to build data centers across the U.S. to support AI development [1].
A recent extreme example of anti-AI sentiment occurred when OpenAI CEO Sam Altman was targeted at his San Francisco home by a man who threw a lit Molotov cocktail at his driveway gate. The San Francisco District Attorney attributed the attack to hatred of AI technology, and the suspect faces charges including attempted murder and threats to burn down OpenAI's headquarters [1]. Altman responded by acknowledging the current "great anxiety about AI" and called for a de-escalation of rhetoric and tactics, while expressing empathy for anti-technology sentiments. He also proposed policy remedies such as a public wealth fund, a four-day workweek, and changes to payroll taxes to address broader economic anxiety related to automation [1]. Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei has similarly highlighted the risks of large-scale disruption from AI [1].
Polling data underscores the growing pessimism: a March NBC News survey found that 57% of registered voters believe the risks of AI outweigh the benefits, while a Quinnipiac University poll reported that 55% expect AI would do more harm than good in their daily lives. A Pew poll echoed these findings, showing a majority of Americans are more concerned than excited about increased use of AI [1].
The expansion of data centers, which are critical for AI's computational needs, is also facing widespread pushback due to concerns about energy demand and local opposition. In 2025, at least $156 billion in data center projects were blocked or delayed amid litigation and community resistance, according to Data Center Watch [1]. On Wednesday, Maine passed a bill to create the first state-wide data center ban, highlighting the intensifying regulatory and public scrutiny [1].
CONCLUSION
Negative public sentiment and regulatory pushback are creating significant headwinds for AI companies and tech giants investing in data centers. As OpenAI and Anthropic move toward IPOs, these challenges could affect their valuations and growth prospects. The market is likely to remain cautious as public opinion and policy debates intensify.