Americans Oppose Breaking Up Big Tech, Cite Risks to U.S. Global Competitiveness and AI Leadership
A new survey conducted by TechNet, a bipartisan network of innovation economy leaders, in partnership with Echelon Insights, reveals that a majority of Americans view the technology industry as a cornerstone of U.S. global competitiveness. The findings underscore widespread opposition to breaking up major American tech companies, with concerns that such actions could weaken the nation’s position against global rivals like China, stifle innovation, and hinder progress in critical areas like artificial intelligence (AI).
The survey, conducted from April 4-7, 2025, among 2,020 likely voters nationwide, highlights the pivotal role technology plays in shaping public opinion on economic and national security priorities. With mounting geopolitical tensions and rapid advancements in AI, Americans are increasingly aware of the stakes involved in maintaining leadership in the tech sector.
Key Findings: Breaking Up Big Tech Could Harm U.S. Competitiveness
1. Breaking Up Tech Companies Seen as a Competitive Risk
A clear majority of Americans (62%) believe that breaking up major U.S. tech companies would put the United States at a competitive disadvantage against adversaries like China. This sentiment reflects growing recognition of the strategic importance of a strong, unified tech industry in maintaining America’s edge on the global stage.
2. Concerns About Losing AI Leadership
An overwhelming 72% of respondents expressed concern about foreign countries surpassing the U.S. in artificial intelligence and other cutting-edge technologies. As AI becomes a defining factor in economic and military power, Americans are signaling their desire for policies that protect and enhance the nation’s technological leadership.
3. Broad Support for American Tech Products
The survey also found that virtually all American voters (95%) find the products and services offered by U.S. tech companies useful, compared to just 3% who do not. This near-universal reliance on tech innovations underscores the industry’s integral role in daily life and its contribution to the economy.
4. Low Support for Antitrust Actions
Only 25% of voters support continuing Biden administration efforts to break up American tech companies, including just 9% of Republicans. Furthermore, a mere 6% of respondents think pursuing antitrust lawsuits against tech companies should be a top priority for the Trump administration — the lowest proportion among all answer options. Instead, most voters prioritize issues like securing the border and controlling inflation over breaking up tech giants, by a 53-point margin.
5. Political Consequences of Anti-Tech Policies
By a 15-point margin (43% to 28%), voters said they would be less likely to support a candidate advocating for breaking up major American tech companies. This finding suggests that anti-tech policies could have significant political repercussions, alienating voters who value innovation and competitiveness.
Why Tech Industry Unity Matters for National Security and Innovation
The survey underscores the critical role that American tech companies play in safeguarding national security and driving innovation. Breaking up these companies could fragment resources, reduce efficiency, and slow the pace of technological advancement—leaving the U.S. vulnerable to competitors like China, which is aggressively investing in AI and other emerging technologies.
“American innovation is a key driver of our global competitiveness,” said TechNet in a statement accompanying the survey results. “This data shows that voters understand the risks of undermining the tech industry and recognize its vital contributions to our economy, security, and quality of life.”
Voter Sentiment Reflects Broader Economic and Geopolitical Concerns
The survey’s findings align with broader trends in voter sentiment. In an era of heightened geopolitical competition and economic uncertainty, Americans are prioritizing policies that bolster national strength and stability. For many, this means supporting industries that drive innovation and create jobs, rather than pursuing regulatory measures that could disrupt progress.
1. Cost Implications for Consumers
Respondents also expressed concerns that breaking up tech companies could lead to higher costs for consumers. The efficiencies achieved through economies of scale allow tech giants to offer affordable products and services, and dismantling these structures could result in price increases for everyday Americans.
2. Slower Innovation
Innovation thrives when companies have the resources and flexibility to invest in research and development. Breaking up tech companies could divert attention away from groundbreaking projects, slowing advancements in fields like AI, cybersecurity, and clean energy.
3. Global Leadership at Stake
As the world becomes increasingly reliant on technology, maintaining leadership in this space is essential for both economic prosperity and national security. The survey highlights a shared understanding among voters that weakening the U.S. tech industry could cede ground to rival nations, jeopardizing America’s future.
Methodology: A Representative Snapshot of Voter Opinion
The survey was fielded online from April 4-7, 2025, among a nationally representative sample of 2,020 likely voters. Conducted in English using non-probability sampling, the survey drew participants from the Lucid sample exchange and matched them to the L2 voter file to ensure accuracy and reliability.
Weighting adjustments were applied to reflect demographic characteristics, including gender, age, race/ethnicity, education, region, party affiliation, and voting history. Data quality measures included trap questions to assess attentiveness and protocols to prevent duplicate responses. The margin of sampling error is +/- 2.5 percentage points.
TechNet: Advocating for a Strong Innovation Economy
TechNet is a bipartisan network of technology CEOs and senior executives dedicated to promoting policies that foster innovation and economic growth. Representing over 4.5 million employees and countless customers across industries like AI, e-commerce, cybersecurity, and advanced energy, TechNet advocates for targeted policy agendas at both federal and state levels.
With offices in key cities like Austin, Boston, Chicago, and Washington, D.C., TechNet serves as a bridge between the tech industry and policymakers, ensuring that regulations support rather than hinder progress. The organization’s mission is clear: to champion an innovation-driven economy that benefits businesses, workers, and consumers alike.
Protecting America’s Technological Edge
As the U.S. navigates an increasingly complex global landscape, the findings of this survey highlight the importance of protecting and nurturing the tech industry. Breaking up major tech companies could undermine America’s ability to compete, innovate, and lead in critical areas like AI and cybersecurity.
For policymakers, the message from voters is clear: prioritize policies that strengthen the innovation economy, safeguard national security, and maintain America’s position as a global leader. By supporting the tech industry, the U.S. can ensure a brighter, more prosperous future for generations to come.
