Senator Bernie Sanders has renewed his criticism of the technology industry’s rapid push into artificial intelligence and robotics, arguing that it is being driven by extreme wealth concentration rather than concern for ordinary workers. In a video shared on X, Sanders said that “multi-multi-billionaires are pouring hundreds of billions of dollars” into developing and deploying these technologies. He questioned the motives behind this investment, suggesting that the focus is on maximizing profits, not on protecting jobs or ensuring stable livelihoods for families affected by automation.
Sanders named prominent tech and business leaders such as Elon Musk, Jensen Huang, Mark Zuckerberg, Sam Altman, Jeff Bezos, and Peter Thiel as examples of individuals who hold enormous influence over how these technologies are used. He argued that despite public claims about innovation and progress, these figures are not genuinely concerned about workers being replaced or communities disrupted. While emphasizing that technology itself is not the problem, Sanders said AI and robotics can benefit society only if they are implemented with fairness, worker protections, and shared economic gains in mind.
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Sanders said that hundreds of billions of dollars are being invested in artificial intelligence and robotics to accelerate automation across industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and technology services. He argued that the scale of this spending shows a clear push by companies to replace human labor with machines.
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By naming Elon Musk, Jensen Huang, Mark Zuckerberg, Sam Altman, Jeff Bezos, and Peter Thiel, Sanders pointed to a small group of powerful figures who influence the direction of modern technology. He said these individuals are connected to companies involved in electric vehicles, computer chips, social media, artificial intelligence, e-commerce, data analytics, and defense technologies.
Sanders stated that decisions made by this small group affect millions of workers worldwide. He argued that when financial power is concentrated in a few hands, worker needs are often ignored, with efficiency and profit prioritized over job security, as automation is used to reduce labor costs and expand corporate control.
Robots Replacing Human Labor
A key example used in the video was the humanoid robot Atlas, developed by Boston Dynamics, a company owned by Hyundai Motor Group. The robot is expected to be deployed at Hyundai facilities starting in 2028. Initially, Atlas will handle tasks such as parts sequencing, with plans to expand its role to more complex work over time.
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Sanders pointed to this example to show how robots are moving beyond simple machines and into roles once filled by people. He said companies are drawn to robots because they do not require wages, health benefits, sick leave, or vacations. From a financial standpoint, robots are cheaper over time, making them attractive to large corporations.
Sanders has previously criticized Amazon for expanding its use of robots in warehouses and logistics operations. He has said that replacing workers with machines allows companies to boost profits while avoiding the costs tied to employing people. According to Sanders, this approach prioritizes efficiency over human well-being.
He warned that widespread automation could lead to job losses, especially for workers without advanced technical skills. Sanders has said that many workers may struggle to find new employment if machines take over large sections of the economy. His comments reflect concerns shared by labor groups and workers who fear being pushed aside by rapid technological change.
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Broader Risks and Use of Advanced Technology
Beyond jobs, Sanders has raised concerns about how advanced technology could be used if left unchecked. He has said that the world may not be far from seeing robots used in military or security roles, increasing risks linked to automated systems. According to Sanders, the speed of technological development has outpaced public discussion and oversight.
Sanders has also challenged claims that AI and robotics will automatically create a better society. He has questioned who would control such a system and how wealth generated by machines would be distributed. In his view, without strong rules, the benefits of automation will flow upward to those who already hold power and wealth.
Throughout his criticism, Sanders has repeated that the purpose of technology should be to improve human life. He has said that innovation must serve people, not just corporate profits. His renewed statements add to ongoing public debate about inequality, control, and the role of technology in shaping work and daily life.
