AI cuts more jobs in 2026 than last 2 years combined, replaces 38,000 jobs in May alone

AI has cut 1.23 lakh jobs in US so far in 2026, more than it did in 2024 and 2025 combined, Challenger Gray reported. US-based technology companies announced that AI replaced 38,242 jobs in May 2026 alone, the highest monthly total since August 2024. With this, 2026 is on track to be the most disruptive year for the job market.