To say the rise of artificial intelligence is changing how we create and consume information would be an understatement. While AI offers new possibilities, it also brings up urgent questions about copyright, trust, and fair compensation for creators. At NAB's New York show, a brand new survey unveiled exactly how Americans feel about AI's growing role.

This post unpacks the key findings from that survey, created by OnMessage Inc., and explores the critical conversations that followed among industry leaders. We'll look at the public's deep-seated concerns about AI, their trust in traditional journalism versus AI-generated content, and their strong support for policies that protect content creators.

A Staggering Level of Concern Over AI

The survey, which polled 1,000 likely voters, revealed a universal and intense concern about artificial intelligence. An overwhelming 82% of Americans are concerned about AI, with a significant 42% reporting they are very concerned. This sentiment cuts across political lines, with Democrats, Republicans, and Independents sharing similar levels of apprehension.

These numbers suggest AI regulation is moving beyond a niche industry issue, becoming a major focus in public policy and future elections. The data indicates that the public's worries are deep and widespread, creating a powerful mandate for thoughtful discussion and action.

Job Security and AI: A Personal Threat

The survey also tapped into a deeply personal fear: job displacement. A notable 32% of respondents are concerned that AI could replace their current job. While this might seem lower than the general concern, it's a significant number when tied to something as personal as a person's livelihood.

What's particularly surprising is that this concern isn't limited to those unfamiliar with the technology. Even among people who regularly use AI, 30% still worry about its potential impact on their job security. This finding highlights that hands-on experience with AI doesn't necessarily erase fears about its economic consequences.

The Public Stands with Journalists

One of the most powerful findings for the news industry was the public's view on AI's impact on journalism. A massive 76% of Americans are concerned about AI stealing or reproducing journalism and local news stories without permission.

This strong majority shows that the public values the work of journalists and understands the threat posed by unauthorized content scraping. The data tells us that the concerns within newsrooms about copyright and fair use are shared by a vast majority of the American public. This creates a solid foundation of public support for policies that protect original reporting.

A Major Trust Gap: Journalism vs. AI

When it comes to trust, the survey paints a stark picture: People continue to place their trust in established news sources. In contrast, they are highly skeptical of information generated by AI. Nearly 70% of respondents said they do not trust information that comes from an AI bot.

This "trust gap" presents both a challenge and an opportunity. For AI platforms, it's a significant hurdle to overcome. For news organizations, it reinforces the value of their brand and the trust they have built with their communities over decades. As panelist Nick Radziul of Hearst Television noted, the disparity highlights the need for newsrooms to carefully navigate AI implementation to avoid destroying the credibility they have worked so hard to establish.

Strong Support for Regulation and Compensation

The survey measured both concerns and public opinions on possible solutions. The results show a preference for government oversight and fair compensation.

• Guardrails Over Unfettered Growth: When presented with two competing arguments, 72% of voters agreed that the government should place guardrails on AI development. Only 28% favored a hands-off approach to allow American businesses to experiment freely. This signals a strong public appetite for regulation.
• Demand for Fair Compensation: An overwhelming majority supports action to protect content creators. The survey found that Americans "unquestionably" support Congress passing a law to make it illegal for AI to use journalism without compensation. This sentiment was consistent across all demographics.

As moderator Curtis LeGeyt of NAB pointed out, these figures send a powerful message to policymakers. The public is actively looking for solutions that ensure fairness and protect the integrity of the information ecosystem.

Where Do We Go From Here?

The panel discussion following the survey presentation underscored the complexity of the issue. Panelists like Brad Silver from Advance and Jon Schleuss from NewsGuild-CWA discussed the need for a multi-pronged approach. This includes strengthening copyright protections, increasing transparency through bot identification, and creating a competitive marketplace where publishers of all sizes can negotiate fair licensing deals.

While some panelists expressed skepticism about the speed of legislative action, the survey results provide a powerful catalyst. Public opinion is a major force in shaping policy, and these numbers demonstrate a clear and unified call for action.

The insights from this survey are an indicator of the stakes involved in the integration of AI. The public values trust, authenticity, and fairness. As the media industry continues to adapt, keeping these core principles at the forefront will be essential for navigating the future.