21% of Voters Track AI News Closely

Despite widespread discussion surrounding artificial intelligence, only 21% of voters closely track AI news. A Rasmussen/RMG Research poll conducted in September 2026 revealed this limited engagement. The survey indicated that 48% of voters follow AI news somewhat closely, while 31% do not follow it at all. These figures suggest a public largely aware of AI but not deeply invested in its ongoing narrative.

The findings highlight a challenge for policymakers and AI developers seeking informed public discourse. Although AI's presence in daily life and media is increasing, a substantial portion of the populace remains disengaged from the specifics of its progress and implications. This gap could affect public reception of new AI regulations, ethical debates, and technological advancements.

The survey was based on a national sample of 1,000 likely voters. It included 80% conducted via an automated telephone interviewing system and 20% by an online survey panel. The results carry a margin of sampling error of +/- 3 percentage points. The data collection occurred on September 25-26, 2026. Such limited deep engagement could impact the perceived urgency of AI-related societal shifts.