This anti-AI evangelist is growing more popular. That could be a problem for Trump

This anti-AI evangelist is growing more popular. That could be a problem for Trump

A Shift from Live Events to Anti-AI Advocacy

This anti AI evangelist is growing – The pandemic’s disruption of the live events sector forced Joe Allen to pivot his career in a dramatic way. Once a concert technician, he transformed into a mobile refuge, traveling across the United States to voice his concerns about artificial intelligence. With traditional jobs for “concert riggers” dwindling, Allen turned his attention to the growing influence of technology, becoming a prominent figure in the movement to question AI’s role in society. His journey from stage to podium has positioned him as a key voice in a debate that is increasingly shaping political discourse.

Allen’s transition into activism began with his work for outlets like The Federalist, where he began writing about the risks of automation and digital innovation. His critiques gained traction when he joined Steve Bannon’s “War Room” podcast, a platform known for its sharp take on contemporary issues. Through this medium, Allen’s skepticism of AI found a wider audience, blending his theological background with a message that resonates deeply with those feeling displaced by technological progress.

The Rising Influence of Tech Skepticism

What was once a niche perspective has now become a mainstream concern. A June survey by the Pew Research Center revealed a growing majority of Americans believe AI will harm society more than it will benefit it. This shift in public opinion is reflected in the increasing number of voices like Allen’s who argue that technology, particularly AI, threatens fundamental aspects of life—employment, energy costs, mental well-being, and even the environment.

Allen, a graduate of Boston University’s religion and science program, positions himself as a modern-day Luddite. His anti-AI stance has been amplified by media appearances and sermons in places like Dallas’ First Baptist Church, where he spoke to an audience of thousands. “I sound less crazy now,” he told CNN before a recent address, highlighting the changing perception of his arguments in the public eye. This evolution has allowed his message to reach a broader demographic, including MAGA supporters who are increasingly critical of the Trump administration’s hands-off approach to regulating AI.

The Shoggoth Metaphor and Cultural Resentment

Allen’s rhetoric often draws on vivid imagery to convey his apprehension about AI’s dominance. One of his slides in a presentation featured the faces of leading AI executives superimposed onto the tentacles of a fictional monster from H.P. Lovecraft’s 1936 novella, *At the Mountains of Madness*. This creature, known as the Shoggoth, symbolizes the fear of unseen forces controlling human destiny. For Allen, AI represents a similar threat, one that masquerades as a tool but is perceived as a god-like entity that dictates what is “good” and “true” without human input.

“AI uses you and preys on children, masked by the innocence of a screen,” he warned during his speech at First Baptist Church. This metaphor taps into a cultural matrix of resentment, where people feel powerless against the rapid spread of technology. Allen argues that the “tech elite” are not just innovators but propagandists, seeking to replace traditional beliefs with a new “religion of AI.” His message appeals to those who see technology as a force that erodes community and individual agency.

Bannon’s Role in Amplifying the Message

Steve Bannon, whose “War Room” podcast has been instrumental in shaping conservative thought, played a pivotal role in Allen’s rise to prominence. Bannon recognized early on that Allen’s critiques would resonate with working-class and lower-middle-class Americans, who are often the most affected by automation. “He’s perfect for that audience,” Bannon told CNN, emphasizing Allen’s ability to connect with listeners through his background in theology and Southern charm.

Allen’s partnership with Bannon has allowed his ideas to spread beyond niche circles. The former White House chief strategist has framed Allen as a bridge between traditional values and modern anxieties, positioning him as a leader in the anti-AI movement. This alignment has helped Allen gain visibility in a political landscape where technology and its societal implications are central to the conversation.

The Political Crossroads

As Allen’s influence grows, it raises questions about its potential impact on political outcomes. His message has created a widening divide within the American right, challenging the Trump administration’s largely deregulatory stance on AI. While Trump has supported tech companies by advocating for minimal oversight, some of his supporters are now voicing concerns about the long-term consequences of this approach.

Allen’s audience includes many Trump loyalists, yet they are not unified in their support of his policies. For instance, college students at graduation ceremonies have expressed unease about AI’s role in the workforce, booing its presence during speeches. Communities have also organized protests against AI data centers, fearing their environmental and economic impact. Meanwhile, families are taking legal action against AI firms, alleging that chatbots have influenced children in harmful ways.

These movements indicate a broader shift in how Americans perceive technology. Allen’s speeches, which blend religious language with modern anxieties, have framed AI as an existential threat. “They’re furious. They do not want it,” he said, describing the growing sentiment among working-class Americans. This sentiment is not just about technology but about a sense of loss—of jobs, of control, and of a shared cultural identity.

A Church with Political Weight

The First Baptist Church in Dallas, where Allen delivered his speech, is a key player in the religious and political landscape of the United States. With a sprawling 270,000-square-foot complex and its own parking garage, the church serves as a hub for congregants who are deeply committed to conservative values. Its leader, Robert Jeffries, has long been a Trump ally, and many of the church’s members are ardent supporters of the former president.

Yet, even within this influential group, Allen’s message has sparked debate. During his March appearance, it was clear that some Trump supporters were skeptical of the administration’s lack of regulatory action. While Trump’s approach has been to promote AI as a driver of economic growth, Allen’s warnings about its societal costs have provided an alternative narrative. This divide underscores a growing tension between technological optimism and cultural apprehension, which could influence voter behavior in the upcoming midterms.

Allen’s rise reflects a unique intersection of faith, economics, and technology. As his influence expands, it challenges the idea that the American right is monolithic in its view of AI. The movement he represents is not just about fear of the future—it’s about reclaiming agency in a world where technology is reshaping daily life. For Trump and his allies, this could be a turning point, as the anti-AI message gains momentum among a key segment of their base.

“If you’re skeptical of this, if you don’t want to live this way, you are not alone,” Allen said, encapsulating the message that has brought him to the forefront of a new cultural and political battle. His journey from a concert technician to a national voice highlights how rapidly public sentiment can shift in the face of perceived threats. Whether this movement will strengthen or weaken Trump’s position remains to be seen, but its impact on the American right is undeniable.