The recent UMBC Poll, conducted between October 21 and October 25, 2025, sheds light on the perceptions and concerns of Maryland residents regarding artificial intelligence (AI). With 810 adults surveyed, including 757 registered voters, the data reveals a complex relationship between familiarity, usage, and concern regarding AI technologies.
Familiarity with AI
The poll indicates a notable level of awareness among Maryland residents about AI. Almost all participants reported at least some familiarity with the technology:
- 54% claimed they had heard or read "a lot" about AI.
- 32% reported some familiarity.
- 11% admitted to knowing "a little."
- Only 3% expressed complete unfamiliarity.
This widespread awareness is significant given that AI technologies are rapidly infiltrating various facets of daily life, from digital assistants to more complex machine learning applications. The poll further highlights that while many Marylanders are informed, their feelings toward AI are largely cautious.
Concerns about AI’s Societal Impact
Perhaps the most striking takeaway from the poll is the overwhelming apprehension about the societal implications of AI. A substantial 58% of respondents believe that AI will have a negative impact on society, contrasted with 30% who view it positively. This skepticism likely stems from the multiple issues associated with AI use, some of which were highlighted in the survey.
Misinformation and Political Propaganda
One of the highest concerns, cited by 81% of respondents, is the potential for AI to perpetuate misinformation and political propaganda. The ability of AI to create deepfakes and automated news generation represents a genuine threat to informed public discourse. This concern resonates within the context of recent discussions regarding misinformation campaigns in both social media and traditional news outlets, often exacerbated by persuasive AI-driven algorithms.
Identity Theft and Privacy Concerns
Additionally, 78% of participants expressed significant worries regarding identity theft or impersonation facilitated by AI technologies. In a digital age where personal data security is paramount, the rise in data breaches and the misuse of personal information make this concern increasingly relevant. As AI systems become better at mimicking human interaction, the risks associated with impersonation crimes may also grow.
Education and Critical Thinking
At 61%, a majority of Marylanders are concerned about the impact of AI on education and critical thinking skills. The fear is that reliance on AI assistance may dull cognitive abilities and diminish educational values that promote analytical thinking. This viewpoint is vital as educational institutions grapple with integrating AI tools into curriculums while preserving critical thinking skills among students.
Social Connections and Job Displacement
Moreover, 58% of those surveyed fear that AI may lead to a decrease in personal connections, signaling worries that human interaction could be supplanted by algorithm-driven communication. Similarly, 55% express anxiety over AI potentially replacing human jobs. This apprehension reflects broader discussions in society about automation and the future of work in an AI-dominated landscape.
Environmental Concerns
Around 51% of respondents also mentioned the environmental impact of data centers used to support AI technologies. The appetite for renewable energy in computing is a significant concern as discussions about climate change escalate. As Maryland and other states push towards sustainability, ensuring that AI technology aligns with environmental goals is an ongoing challenge.
Law Enforcement and Facial Recognition
Finally, 44% of respondents demonstrated wariness regarding the application of facial recognition technologies in law enforcement. This concern aligns with ongoing debates about surveillance, civil liberties, and the ethical implications of algorithmic policing. The balance between public safety and individual privacy remains a contentious issue in discussions surrounding the deployment of AI in law enforcement.
Personal Use of AI
Interestingly, personal use of AI tools varies markedly among Maryland residents:
- 43% use AI tools on a weekly basis or more.
- 9% use them monthly.
- 20% use them less than monthly.
- 26% have never used AI tools.
The varied implementation suggests a fragmented understanding and acceptance of AI. While many residents are engaging with AI, a significant portion is either hesitant or completely uninformed about the potential benefits and drawbacks.
Methodology
The UMBC Poll utilized a dual-frame random sample stratified by county, ensuring diverse representation within the cohort surveyed. Interviews were conducted both via landline and cellular phones, allowing for a broad reach across different demographics. The margin of error stands at +/- 3.4% for the full sample and +/- 3.5% for registered voters, indicating reliable data within acceptable limits.
Conclusion
The findings from the UMBC Poll highlight a complex landscape of perception surrounding artificial intelligence among Maryland residents. While there is a commendable level of familiarity, the concerns significantly outweigh the positivity associated with AI technologies. As society navigates the challenges posed by rapid AI advancements, understanding public opinion will be crucial for policymakers, educators, and technology developers alike.
In a rapidly changing technological environment, fostering open dialogues about AI’s implications, educating the public on its benefits, and addressing legitimate concerns are essential steps toward a more informed society. Moving forward, the challenge will be balancing innovation with ethical considerations, personal privacy, and social responsibility to mitigate the risks highlighted in the UMBC Poll.
