Job Cuts Loom as Robots Replace Workers
Senator Bernie Sanders sent a letter to Jeff Bezos demanding answers about Amazon’s aggressive automation strategy. The letter, reviewed by Reuters, cites internal reports that up to 600,000 warehouse job hiring could be avoided.
“If Amazon succeeds, it will become a model for mass layoffs,” Sanders wrote. He warned that the plan could devastate blue-collar workers nationwide.
Amazon currently employs 1.55 million people, most of them hourly warehouse staff.
Automation Plans Raise Alarm
The senator’s concerns follow a New York Times investigation. The report revealed Amazon’s goal to fully automate its logistics network. Executives believe robots could replace hundreds of thousands of human roles over time.
Sanders, who leads the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, said the company must explain its long-term labor strategy.
Bezos Under Pressure
Sanders addressed the letter directly to Bezos, who recently spoke at Italian Tech Week 2025. There, Bezos praised automation as a tool for efficiency and innovation.
But Sanders argued that efficiency shouldn’t come at the cost of livelihoods.
The senator also criticized Amazon’s lack of public engagement on the issue. He urged the company to disclose its automation timeline and job transition plans.
Political and Public Reaction
Labor unions and advocacy groups backed Sanders’ move. Many called for stronger protections for warehouse workers.Some lawmakers joined Sanders in demanding oversight. Others urged Amazon to invest in retraining programs.
Public reaction has been mixed. Some support automation for its efficiency. Others fear job loss and economic instability.
Amazon’s Response Pending
As of October 28, Amazon had not publicly responded to Sanders’ letter. The company has previously stated that automation improves safety and productivity.
“Robots help reduce injuries and speed up operations,” Amazon said in a past statement.
But critics argue that the benefits are uneven. They say workers are being pushed out without support.
What’s at Stake
Experts say Amazon’s strategy could influence other corporations. If successful, it may become a blueprint for mass automation.
Sanders warned that without intervention, the shift could widen inequality.
“We must act before it’s too late,” he said.
