Geoffrey Hinton Warns of Mass AI-Driven Job Cuts in 2026

On CNN's "State of the Union" aired December 28–29, 2025, the "Godfather of AI" Geoffrey Hinton issued a stark warning regarding AI's impact on the economy. Hinton stated that rapid progress in models' ability to perform "long-horizon tasks" and write complex code will lead to significant job automation as early as 2026. According to him, not only routine office jobs but also skilled positions in programming and analytics will be at risk.

The scientist emphasized that current social systems are unprepared for such a rapid labor market transformation. He urged governments to consider introducing universal basic income or other protection mechanisms. Hinton's statement sparked widespread debate in business circles: experts at Fortune and Business Insider note that while AI was previously viewed as a "copilot," businesses are now beginning to see it as a full replacement for staff. This interview marks a rhetorical shift from theoretical risks to concrete economic consequences in the near future.

Source: CNN