A new data center project in the U.S. is drawing significant backlash and legal challenges from local communities. Supporters of the initiative suggest that “foreign influence” may be intensifying the opposition.
Key figures such as House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Brett Guthrie and Representatives John Joyce and Bob Latta have urged FBI Director Kash Patel to investigate what they describe as a “foreign influence campaign” aimed at hindering American AI development. Technology firms and investors are joining this call.
“We find these concerns to be credible based on recent disclosures from OpenAI about its models being exploited by entities linked to Chinese influence operations, especially concerning the controversy around data centers,” stated Joshua Levine from the American Innovation Foundation. “Considering the scale of this project, it seems plausible that foreign entities might have a stake.”
However, Jones pointed out that it’s misleading to attribute all issues solely to the Chinese government. He argued that data centers could contribute to high electricity costs and troubling water usage in a region already struggling with drought and environmental issues.
This situation has escalated in various local governments across the country, where officials are being ousted over data center agreements or are facing bans.
Although the federal government has called for investigations, no substantial findings have yet confirmed claims of Chinese influence. Senator Tom Cotton has also requested that the Justice Department look into this matter.
Guthrie emphasized that the U.S. must maintain its edge in global leadership and AI excellence, noting that reports about foreign influence must be taken seriously. It’s vital to address community worries about rising electricity rates while ensuring the U.S. stays competitive in the AI sector against foreign disinformation campaigns.
The FBI stated that they cannot confirm or deny the existence of specific investigations due to Department of Justice policies.
“Plane to Sea”
Resistance to data centers is growing across the U.S., fueled by the influx of wealthy investors and significant AI development funds.
A lawsuit has been filed by Alliance for a Better Utah and five residents in Box Elder County against entrepreneur Kevin O’Leary, seeking to halt the Stratos Data Center Project. “This lawsuit fundamentally questions whether Utahns can be governed by accountable elected officials,” said attorney David Irvine.
O’Leary, known for his media presence, suggested that stopping the data center is aligned with adversaries like China. “Who would want us to halt the progress on our power grid and AI development? There’s only one, and that’s China,” he claimed, referencing a rise in misinformation on social media platforms.
Opposition groups have dismissed O’Leary’s claims as absurd. Mitch Jones from Food & Water Watch noted that public disapproval of uncontrolled AI data center projects is quickly gaining momentum.
In light of concerns over data center operations, OpenAI announced it banned accounts likely linked to China that were involved in manipulating social media narratives about American AI.
Meanwhile, O’Leary remarked on the security implications of potential misinformation campaigns, asserting that they are likely orchestrated by the Chinese Communist Party. His company had not provided a comment on these allegations.
The state’s leaders have made requests regarding the data center project, including scaling it down significantly and conducting environmental reviews.
MIDA is key to overseeing the project, managing zoning and approvals while ensuring local collaboration. They announced that the land acquisition will include water rights and will not negatively affect the Great Salt Lake.
Former President Trump has commented on the quality of life for residents near data centers and has voiced intentions to address the electricity costs associated with the projects. He enacted measures aimed at accelerating AI development.
Look at the numbers
Concerns about water consumption are prevalent, with large data centers allegedly using millions of gallons daily, potentially equating to the needs of mid-sized towns. Predictions show that data centers could account for a significant percentage of the nation’s electricity consumption by 2028.
High-profile executives, including BlackRock’s Larry Fink, have expressed worries about the safety of data centers becoming targets for domestic threats. BlackRock, meanwhile, is significantly investing in the burgeoning AI infrastructure.
A new bill proposes allowing AI data centers to be equipped with anti-drone technologies in light of security fears.
O’Leary has enjoyed substantial tax incentives for his Utah project, a point raised during debates about taxpayer responsibilities.
Polls indicate that a majority of Americans oppose the rapid expansion of AI data centers. Insight from various reports also suggests concerns about potential Chinese influence on these developments.
Jones concluded by highlighting the growing public resentment toward big tech figures, reflecting broader discontent among citizens.
