OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said on Monday that people are right to be anxious about the development of artificial intelligence [1].
The admission comes as AI systems integrate more deeply into global infrastructure, raising urgent questions about labor markets, misinformation, and the speed of technological adoption.
Speaking during an appearance on CNBC's "Power Lunch" in New York on June 1, 2026 [1], Altman said the rapid pace of AI development is a primary driver of this public apprehension [1].
"People are right to be anxious about AI," Altman said [2].
The interview focused on the tension between the benefits of AI productivity and the instability caused by its deployment. Altman said he is concerned regarding how these advancements impact consumers and the broader structure of society [1]. He suggested that the scale of change is unprecedented, creating an environment where apprehension is a logical response to the unknown.
While OpenAI continues to release new models, the CEO's comments highlight a recognition that technical progress does not always align with societal readiness. The discussion underscored a need for a balance between innovation, and the mitigation of risks associated with autonomous systems [1].
Altman did not provide specific timelines for new safety frameworks during the segment, but he said that the impact on the public remains a central concern for the company's leadership [1].
“People are right to be anxious about AI.”
This acknowledgment from the leader of the world's most prominent AI laboratory signals a shift in corporate rhetoric. By validating public anxiety, OpenAI is positioning itself to lead the conversation on AI safety and regulation, potentially preempting more restrictive government mandates by admitting the technology's disruptive nature.
