Yves here. I’m curious to hear Nat’s thoughts on whether the Democrats will support significant restrictions on data center projects. From my perspective, such a move seems improbable, even if the Democrats achieve a landslide victory in November. The party has become heavily influenced by Silicon Valley, particularly in California. For them to endorse a policy like this, they would need to be convinced that public opposition to data centers has reached a level significant enough to warrant a moratorium. Alternatively, they might opt for a superficial, headline-grabbing bill that provides little real change. If they were to propose more substantial legislation, they would likely rely on a Trump veto and an inability to gather sufficient votes to override it.
The common saying goes that the Democrats would stand in front of a mob and try to play it off as a parade.
By Mitch Jones, Managing Director of Policy and Litigation at Food & Water Watch. Originally published at Common Dreams
It has become increasingly evident that one of the most pressing political topics this election cycle is the discourse surrounding artificial intelligence and the vast data centers that underpin this rapidly advancing technology. Polls consistently reveal that a large majority of Americans oppose the swift proliferation of polluting and disruptive AI data centers and express heightened concerns about AI safety. Despite this sentiment, President Donald Trump and national Republicans support Big Tech’s AI agenda, presenting a significant opportunity for Democrats to capture public support. They should act by advocating for a moratorium on AI data centers and a comprehensive ban on AI “superintelligence.”
Over recent years, AI data centers have spread across various communities with little public input, leading to severe consequences. Electricity prices have surged, water resources are dwindling, air quality is deteriorating, and people’s lives are being disrupted. The backlash against this trend has intensified over the past year. Following our partner organization Food & Water Watch becoming the first national group to call for a comprehensive moratorium on data centers, over 500 organizations have joined this initiative. In response to growing public demand, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) have recently introduced legislation for a moratorium.
Recent public polling indicates strong opposition to data centers. According to a September 29 poll conducted by Quinnipiac, 85% of Democrats, 76% of Independents, and 55% of Republicans oppose the establishment of new data centers in their neighborhoods. Furthermore, 79% of voters prioritize safety over innovation regarding AI. These compelling statistics demonstrate an unprecedented level of consensus among the American populace.
However, Republican leaders shockingly continue to align themselves with Big Tech and its push for AI data centers. Recently, Trump hosted a gathering of CEOs at the White House, which produced nothing more than vague promises of voluntary self-regulation from an industry focused on profit. In contrast, the response from national Democrats has been lackluster at best. While Sanders, Ocasio-Cortez, Reps. Frank Pallone (D-NJ), Maxine Waters (D-Calif.), and others have called for a moratorium, many party members have remained indecisive. For instance, House Democrats overwhelmingly endorsed the so-called Ratepayer Protection Act—more accurately described as the Ratepayer Deception Act—which contained merely nonbinding recommendations for state and local governments. Meanwhile, Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) has yet to unify the caucus stance and continues meeting with AI executives.
On the state level, several ambitious governors continue to champion the AI industry while resisting calls for a moratorium. In Pennsylvania, long-time industry supporter Josh Shapiro recently introduced a regulatory package that facilitates data center expansion in the state. Meanwhile, in California, Gavin Newsom recently enacted regulatory bills that allow for continued industry growth, with the new regulations set to take effect only in 2028.
Despite these challenges, there are glimmers of hope. This week, Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) condemned the Ratepayer Protection Act as a “fraud,” successfully mobilizing Democrats to defeat it. An increasing number of congressional candidates are now advocating for a national moratorium on AI data centers. In New York, after passing legislation earlier this year, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced a one-year moratorium on data centers. Similarly, Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek has halted state permits for data centers while pushing for a longer-term moratorium. Democratic gubernatorial hopefuls in Kansas and Michigan have pledged to enact moratoria, and in Texas, Gina Hinojosa has made data centers such a significant issue that even the industry-friendly Gov. Greg Abbott has temporarily paused new permits.
Big Tech is pouring hundreds of millions of dollars into electing politicians who will cater to its interests, but the elections across the country have demonstrated that people are starting to see beyond the industry’s propaganda. Throughout the primary season, voters have chosen to support candidates opposed to data centers despite the industry’s spending. In some locales, residents have even voted out officials who facilitated the establishment of data centers in their communities.
Democrats have a unique opportunity to leverage this pressing issue, secure significant victories in November, and implement concrete measures regarding AI data centers that will protect both individuals and the environment. They must confront Big Tech, advocate for data center moratoria and a ban on artificial superintelligence, and prioritize the implementation of these policies in the new year.
