Political Ideology,Artificial Intelligence (AI),and Labor Markets: How Political Party Members Perceive AI’s Effects in OECD Countries

Abstract

Given the growing body of research documenting how AI can both positively and negatively affect labor markets, it is logical to assume that AI’s effects on jobs and employment will be a significant political issue for many nations in the coming years. However, we currently lack an understanding of how political parties perceive the potential impact AI has on employment, the role of regulations in protecting workers from AI-related job losses, and the importance of AI educational and training programs to assist workers in environments where AI is more prevalent. Therefore, this study analyzes comments and statements from party members in OECD countries from 2016 to 2025 through content analysis, examining media interviews, speeches, and debates to understand how political party ideologies shape party members’ positions on AI regarding job losses, labor markets, regulations, and AI education and training programs. The findings indicate that political ideology significantly affects party members’ concerns regarding AI-related job losses and the need for government regulations to protect workers from labor market disruptions caused by AI. These findings have important implications for understanding how political ideology may influence party members’ perspectives on AI in relation to labor markets, job losses, and regulation in OECD countries.