As the spooky season arrives, Victor Davis Hanson argues in his September 22, 2026, article, AI and the Same Old Politicized Hysteria, that public fears about artificial intelligence are becoming part of a broader political debate. I’m not talking about scary yard decorations or enjoying a pumpkin spice latte while watching our favorite scary movie. I’m talking about the political “spooky season” that comes with midterm elections. Hanson compares the current AI alarm to earlier fears over population growth, nuclear war, climate change, #MeToo, COVID lockdowns, and the George Floyd protests, arguing that legitimate concerns were sometimes amplified into wider political campaigns. In his view, the timing of the AI debate alongside the midterm election season adds a political dimension to fears surrounding the technology.
Hanson acknowledges that AI presents real and potentially serious risks, comparing its potential importance to nuclear technology. He cites recent concerns about autonomous AI systems, cybersecurity, and AI-controlled biological research as reasons to be cautious. At the same time, he argues that exaggerated predictions and partisan political reactions could distract from practical AI safety and regulation.
Hanson argues that the United States should develop AI safeguards while maintaining domestic control over the technology rather than relying primarily on international institutions. He also emphasizes competition with China and supports negotiations over shared AI-related risks. His broader argument is that Americans should distinguish genuine technological dangers from politically amplified fears and focus on using AI responsibly while preventing hostile uses.
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang says fears of AI ending humanity are “not grounded on facts”
