Senator Bernie Sanders has become a leading voice in the debate over artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on the future of work. As AI and automation rapidly transform industries, Sanders insists that the productivity gains from artificial intelligence should benefit working people, not just corporate executives and shareholders. He believes that artificial intelligence, if managed responsibly, can lead to a better quality of life for everyone by enabling a 4-day workweek and stronger worker protections.

Central to Sanders’ policy on artificial intelligence is his proposal for a 32-hour, 4-day workweek. He introduced the “Thirty-Two Hour Workweek Act,” which mandates overtime pay for any work beyond 32 hours per week, phased in over four years. Sanders argues that as artificial intelligence and automation increase worker productivity, the logical step is to reduce working hours without reducing pay.

Notable Quote:

“You’re a worker, your productivity is increasing because we give you AI, right? Instead of throwing you out on the street, I’m going to reduce your workweek to 32 hours.”

By using artificial intelligence to boost efficiency, Sanders believes that workers should have more time for family, education, and personal pursuits. The 4-day workweek is not just about time off—it’s about ensuring that the benefits of AI and automation are shared with workers, not just those at the top.

A major concern for Sanders is the risk that artificial intelligence and automation could displace millions of jobs, especially in entry-level and routine positions. He warns that, without strong worker protections, the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence could result in widespread unemployment and growing inequality.

Notable Quote:

“Artificial intelligence will displace millions of workers. People will be thrown out on the streets. The corporate guys running these companies couldn’t care less.”

Sanders argues that the solution is not to fear artificial intelligence, but to ensure that policies are in place so that everyone benefits. This means using AI and automation to reduce the workweek, raise wages, and improve job quality, rather than simply enriching corporate profits.

Sanders is a vocal critic of large corporations and tech CEOs who, he says, are more interested in maximizing profits than in protecting workers. He believes that decisions about how artificial intelligence is developed and used should be made democratically, with input from the public and workers—not just a handful of wealthy executives.

Notable Quote:

“Technology is gonna work to improve us, not just the people who own the technology and the CEOs of large corporations.”

By advocating for democratic control of technology, Sanders hopes to ensure that artificial intelligence serves the public interest and supports a fair distribution of productivity gains.

Sanders also addresses the broader social implications of artificial intelligence and a 4-day workweek. He believes that, with the right policies, AI can help people find more purpose and satisfaction outside of work, whether that means spending more time with family, pursuing education, or engaging in creative activities.

Notable Quote:

“Let’s use technology to benefit workers. That means, give you more time with your family, with your friends, for education, whatever the hell you want to do. You don’t have to work 40 hours a week anymore.”

Sanders envisions a future where artificial intelligence leads to a higher standard of living, increased life expectancy, and more leisure time for all.

In addition to advocating for a 4-day workweek, Sanders supports:

• Stronger worker protections
• Universal healthcare
• Access to education
• A higher minimum wage

He believes these measures are essential to help workers thrive in an economy increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence and automation.

Bernie Sanders’ stance on artificial intelligence is clear: AI should be a tool for shared prosperity, not just a source of corporate profits. By pushing for a 4-day workweek, robust worker protections, and democratic control of technology, Sanders is leading the call for policies that ensure artificial intelligence benefits everyone. As AI continues to reshape the workforce, Sanders insists that we must prioritize worker well-being and equitable sharing of productivity gains.

Notable Quote:

“With the explosion of AI, new technology and increased worker productivity, we should demand a shorter work week, increased life expectancy and a decent standard of living for all. The benefits of AI must go to working families, not just high-tech CEOs.”

By keeping artificial intelligence and worker protections at the center of the conversation, Sanders is helping to shape a future where technology works for the many, not just the few.