Vice President J.D. Vance expressed his belief that the Trump administration’s support for artificial intelligence (AI) and technological advancements could benefit both populist workers and tech investors. Speaking at the Andreessen Horowitz American Dynamism Summit in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, Vance stated that fears surrounding AI replacing jobs are misplaced. “I think there’s too much fear that AI will simply replace jobs rather than augmenting so many of the things that we do now,” he said.
Acknowledging the potential for certain jobs to be displaced by new technology, akin to the impact of ATMs on bank tellers, Vance emphasized that history has shown innovation often leads to the creation of more engaging, higher-paying positions. He pointed out that both workers and tech optimists have been failed by government policies over the past four decades, not just those of the last administration. By refraining from imposing stringent regulations on AI, the Trump administration aims to provide the tech sector with the freedom necessary to innovate.
In addition, Vance argued that adjusting international trade and tariff regimes, along with reducing immigration, would deter offshoring practices. He criticized the reliance on cheap labor, describing it as “a crutch that inhibits innovation.” Vance advocated for a shift in focus toward investment and development in the United States, stating, “We don’t want people seeking cheap labor. We want them investing and building right here in the United States of America.” Through these measures, Vance hopes to foster an environment where American workers can thrive alongside advancements in technology.
