Ex-presidential candidate Andrew Yang warns that millions of white-collar workers will lose their jobs within 18 months: ‘The AI jobpocalypse is here’

Fortune

by Preston Fore

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Ex-presidential candidate Andrew Yang has issued a dire warning about the impact of artificial intelligence on the job market, stating that millions of white-collar workers could lose their jobs within 18 months. In an Instagram video with over 600,000 views, Yang emphasized how AI's speed and efficiency now match or surpass that of highly skilled humans, threatening roles across industries such as marketing, coding, law, and accounting. He warned that the economic fallout will extend beyond office workers to local businesses like dry cleaners, restaurants, and hairstylists, as job loss leads to reduced spending. Yang has long advocated for universal basic income (UBI) to address automation's societal impact. During his 2020 presidential campaign, he proposed giving $1,000 a month to every American over 18. His concerns have gained traction among tech leaders, including Elon Musk and Sam Altman, who now support guaranteed income programs. Yang also highlighted the eroding value of higher education as a safeguard against economic disruption, noting rising unemployment rates for college graduates and the potential closure of many institutions. The traditional education premium—the wage boost tied to a degree—is shrinking as AI disrupts job markets. Yang urged caution when considering the costs and benefits of pursuing higher education, suggesting that low-cost or vocational programs, or top-tier schools, remain viable options. He emphasized the urgent need for countermeasures to help workers transition in a rapidly changing economy. This issue matters deeply to readers interested in business because it underscores the broader economic shifts reshaping industries and livelihoods. As AI adoption accelerates, businesses must grapple with workforce displacement, economic inequality, and the feasibility of traditional career pathways. Yang's warnings highlight the critical need for innovative policies and strategies to mitigate these challenges and ensure economic stability in a rapidly evolving job market.

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Originally published on Fortune on 2/25/2026