‘Slow this thing down’: Sanders warns US has no clue about speed and scale of coming AI revolution

The Guardian World

by Lauren Gambino at Stamford

February 21, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Senator Bernie Sanders has issued a stark warning about the impending AI revolution, urging immediate action to address its unprecedented speed and scale. Speaking at Stanford University following meetings with tech leaders in California, Sanders emphasized that both Congress and the American public are "not a clue" about the potential dangers and challenges posed by advanced AI systems currently under development. He described this moment as "the most dangerous time in modern history," calling for urgent policy measures to "slow this thing down." The warning comes amid growing concerns about the ethical, economic, and security implications of AI technology. Sanders' remarks reflect a broader recognition of the risks associated with unregulated advancements in artificial intelligence, including potential job displacement, biases in decision-making systems, and the possibility of misuse in surveillance and warfare. His call for action highlights the need for proactive governance to ensure that AI technologies benefit society rather than pose existential threats. The senator's comments also underscore the urgent need for international cooperation and regulatory frameworks to address AI's global impact. As tech companies race to build more powerful systems, the stakes are higher than ever. Without careful oversight, the rapid pace of innovation could outstrip humanity's ability to manage its consequences, leading to unforeseen challenges that could destabilize economies, disrupt governance, and undermine human rights. Sanders' warning aligns with growing calls from experts and policymakers worldwide for a more measured approach to AI development. His address at Stanford, alongside Congressman Ro Khanna, suggests a bipartisan effort to tackle this critical issue. By fostering collaboration between industry leaders, governments, and civil society, there is hope that a balanced path forward can be charted—one that harnesses the benefits of AI while mitigating its risks. Ultimately, Sanders' message serves as a rallying cry for action. The stakes are too high to ignore the potential dangers of an unchecked AI revolution. As the world grapples with this transformative force, the need for thoughtful policy and ethical considerations has never been more pressing.

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/21/2026