Insights on AI and Data-Center Development
Taylor Budowich, founder of Innovation Council Action, emphasized the importance of listening to community concerns regarding electricity and water in the context of artificial intelligence and data-center development during a policy event with Breitbart News. He argued that effective policies could help address the political challenges associated with these issues.
During the discussion, Breitbart News Washington Bureau Chief Matt Boyle asked Budowich what suggestions he might offer political operatives from both parties as they navigate conversations about AI and data centers leading up to the midterm and 2028 elections.
“You listen first, then you address the concerns,” Budowich stated. “Electricity and water issues are at the heart of these conversations. We can’t drain communities; we should be empowering them instead.”
He further noted, “These investments and efforts should be geared towards building opportunities and reducing costs for people. Bad policy can fuel poor political outcomes, so adopting good policy is essential, and there are solutions to these challenges.”
Boyle also inquired about what policymakers might learn from former President Donald Trump’s approach to these issues. Budowich replied, “I think there’s much to learn from Donald Trump. He often has the right instincts on various matters, seeing things that may not be immediately obvious.”
“Crucially, he doesn’t let adverse politics or a fearful media narrative dictate his governance or thinking,” he continued. “Yes, he is informed and asks important questions, but he’s not swayed by negative media portrayals, which helps him make sound decisions.”
Budowich pointed out the commitments made by major tech companies to tackle concerns over electricity costs, mentioning, “The ratepayer protection pledge by many of these large firms ensures that electricity bills don’t rise unnecessarily.”
He also highlighted the administration’s efforts to lessen regulatory obstacles to energy development. “Lee Zeldin at the EPA has made significant strides for the industry, allowing communities to finally develop long-overdue energy resources,” Budowich said.
He expressed concern about the lack of investment in energy infrastructure, noting, “While it has doubled every decade for the last few decades, it has now stalled. We must reinvest in our communities, and the president has actively questioned the barriers that hinder this progress. Much of that is tied to red tape and bureaucracy.”
“Donald Trump proclaimed, no more,” he stated. “Winning means ensuring you have better electricity bills and investing in necessary community developments.”
Budowich concluded, “What can we learn from Donald Trump? There’s a lot, but it starts with being willing to engage in difficult conversations, listen, and advocate for bold, effective policy.”
