Sen. Kennedy Calls AI Developers 'High IQ Stupid People'

Senator attacks AI industry's public relations strategy

Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) launched a sharp critique of artificial intelligence developers during a Sunday television appearance, calling them "high IQ stupid people" who have failed to effectively communicate with the American public about their technology.

Speaking on NBC's "Meet the Press," Kennedy argued that while AI developers possess significant technical expertise, they lack the marketing skills necessary to build public support for an industry facing mounting criticism. The comments reflect growing political pressure on the AI sector as both major parties confront voter backlash against data centers in the lead-up to November's midterm elections.

Why it matters

Kennedy's remarks signal that data center infrastructure has evolved from a local zoning issue into a national political concern that lawmakers believe could influence midterm outcomes. His specific policy demands—from aesthetic improvements to energy independence—suggest Republicans are preparing legislative or regulatory responses to constituent complaints about AI facilities in their communities.

Specific demands for the industry

The Louisiana senator outlined a detailed list of changes he believes the AI industry must implement to regain public trust. Kennedy criticized the physical appearance of data centers, comparing them to "a broken arm with the bones sticking out" and urging developers to "devise buildings that are slightly aesthetic."

Beyond aesthetics, Kennedy called for substantive operational changes. He demanded that data centers build closed-loop systems to address water usage concerns, generate their own energy rather than straining local grids, and stop requesting tax subsidies from state and local governments.

Most importantly, Kennedy said, the industry needs to communicate more directly with Americans about artificial intelligence's implications. "American people look at it; they're not stupid. They get it," Kennedy told host Kristen Welker. "They think, well, AI could make our lives better if it doesn't take our jobs and kill us all first."

Broader economic concerns

Kennedy's AI criticism came alongside warnings about economic issues facing Republicans before the midterms. He characterized the economic situation bluntly: "The economy is solid, but inflation sucks."

The senator noted that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had previously predicted gasoline prices would fall below $3 per gallon by Labor Day, but the national average remained at $4.15 heading into the holiday. "These prices are gutting the middle class like a fish," Kennedy said.

While Kennedy suggested Congress could address inflation through another reconciliation bill, he acknowledged such action was "not likely" given recent legislative gridlock. He also mentioned voter dissatisfaction with "the war in Iran," though he did not elaborate on that reference.

The details were first reported by Politico.