- Pew Research Centre released a survey indicating that more than one-third of Americans see China as the global leader in artificial intelligence.
- The survey found that 36% of Americans believe China is more advanced than the United States in developing artificial intelligence.
- In contrast, only 12% of Americans say the US is leading in AI, while 18% view both countries as equally advanced.
- Trump asserted the US lead in AI during a speech in Washington, stating, 'whoever wins that race is probably going to win. Period.'
- Trump confirmed that AI discussions will be on the agenda when President Xi visits the US on September 24th.
- The perception of China being ahead in AI cuts across party lines, with 30% of Republicans and 43% of Democrats believing China is more advanced.
- 43% of Americans consider it extremely or very important for the US to be the world leader in developing AI.
- Concerns about AI increasing inequality are prevalent, with 51% of Americans believing it will widen the gap between rich and poor countries.
More than one-third of Americans perceive China as the leader in artificial intelligence, according to a recent Pew Research survey. The survey indicates that 36% of respondents believe China is more advanced, while only 12% think the U.S. holds that title.126
The survey's findings reveal a significant divide in perception across party lines, with 30% of Republicans and 43% of Democrats viewing China as ahead in AI development.
President Trump, however, maintains that the U.S. is leading, stating, “whoever wins that race is probably going to win. Period”. He emphasized the importance of AI in discussions with President Xi, scheduled for September 24th.45

The survey also highlights that 43% of Americans consider it extremely important for the U.S. to lead in AI, while 22% deem it not important. Notably, men are more likely than women to believe the U.S. is ahead (18% vs. 7%).
Concerns about AI's impact on inequality are prevalent, with 51% of Americans believing it will widen the gap between rich and poor countries. This sentiment is stronger among Democrats (60%) compared to Republicans (45%).
The survey underscores a growing anxiety regarding global AI leadership and its implications for economic disparity.
“The survey found 36% of Americans see China as more advanced in AI, compared to only 12% who say the US leads, with 33% unsure. Additionally, 43% of Americans consider US AI leadership extremely important, and 54% of Republicans prioritize it over 34% of Democrats.”

