In Dallas, Texas, the live events industry faced a severe downturn during the pandemic, prompting Joe Allen, known for his work as a concert rigger installing lighting and sound systems, to pivot to an unexpected career. With limited job opportunities available, he chose to travel across the nation, utilizing his writing skills to spotlight the potential dangers posed by emerging technologies and artificial intelligence. His insights have garnered attention with publications like The Federalist and appearances on Steve Bannon’s "War Room" podcast.
Once regarded as a fringe viewpoint, Allen's caution regarding AI has gained traction in today's discourse. He now travels to address audiences across the country, delivering talks that reflect growing public anxiety about AI’s implications for employment, energy expenses, mental well-being, and environmental concerns. A June survey by Pew Research Center revealed that more Americans now believe AI poses greater risks than benefits to society.
With a background in religion and science from Boston University, Allen identifies as a tech-Luddite, and his skepticism about AI has now become mainstream, even featuring in a February cover story in Time magazine discussing the rising backlash against technology.
At a speech in March before a large audience at First Baptist Church in Dallas—one of the largest megachurches in the nation—Allen remarked on the changes in public perception: "I sound less crazy now." His messages resonate deeply, particularly among supporters of the MAGA movement, some of whom are beginning to question the Trump administration's relatively relaxed stance on AI regulation.
“There is this whole cultural matrix filled with resentment about technology,” Allen explained. “People are horrified by its encroachment.” Across the nation, there’s a palpable unease surrounding AI—from college students expressing concerns during graduation ceremonies to communities opposing the establishment of AI data centers they fear will generate pollution and noise. Families have even taken legal action against AI companies, citing harm linked to chatbot suggestions.
Allen’s argument centers not on technology itself, but on a growing perception of AI as a deity-like entity—one that purportedly possesses knowledge surpassing human understanding. During his speech, he asserted that the tech elite seem to aim to supplant God with "the religion of AI." He visually illustrated this point with a slide showcasing well-known AI leaders' faces upon the tentacles of a fictional monster, the Shoggoth, from H.P. Lovecraft’s writing, symbolizing the ambiguity surrounding AI’s operations.
During his engagement, Allen asserted that AI “uses you” and poses risks, particularly to children, all while masquerading under a veneer of innocence. He reassured attendees, “If you’re skeptical of this, if you don’t want to live this way, you are not alone.”
Bannon, whose podcast has elevated Allen's profile nationally, recognized the immediate resonance of Allen’s message with working-class Americans and encouraged him to extend his reach. "He’s perfect for that audience," Bannon noted, emphasizing Allen’s relatable background and ability to connect with listeners.
In contrast, tech leaders argue that AI will usher in positive changes by enhancing productivity, generating new job opportunities, and diminishing tedious tasks such as sorting emails and coding. They also highlight initiatives aimed at minimizing energy consumption and ensuring responsible AI practices.
The First Baptist Church—spanning 270,000 square feet to accommodate its roughly 16,000 members—houses a significant congregation that has historically aligned with Republican values, chiefly under the leadership of Robert Jeffress, a close ally of former President Trump. However, during Allen's visit, it became evident that some of these attendees did not favor Trump’s initial approach toward AI, which favored minimal regulation to expedite technological progress and outpace China. Concerns lingered about the rapid advancement of AI technology.
One attendee, Elizabeth Gomez Crocker, identified as a supporter of Trump but expressed her unease regarding job displacement due to AI, advocating for a deceleration in development to allow for more comprehensive research.
Despite a shared political backing of Trump, many Americans show a growing desire for government oversight of AI technology, as underscored by Pew's findings, indicating that even among Republicans, a significant portion lacks confidence in the government’s capacity for effective AI regulation.
As public sentiment shifts—particularly among younger demographics grow more cautious about the societal implications of AI—Bannon suggested that while Trump supporters are respectful toward the president, swaying their opinions on AI will be challenging. The increasing consensus across political factions indicates widespread concern about AI’s future repercussions, with polls revealing a collective skepticism about government assurances regarding the appropriate use of AI technology.
Allen, recognizing the broader coalition forming against unchecked AI advancement, advocated for a careful approach as Trump navigates this critical issue, emphasizing that the upcoming years will significantly shape the legacy he leaves behind. “He’s got three years to make that decision,” Allen asserted, “and his legacy is going to depend on that.”
