AOC fires back at Trump over data centers and suggests putting one in Mar-a-Lago
Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez responded to President Trump's comments on data center opposition by suggesting one be built in Mar-a-Lago. Trump had criticized opponents as "backwards and poor," highlighting a growing political debate over data centers' economic and environmental impacts. This national discussion comes as states like Texas have enacted moratoriums on data center construction.
Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez offered a sarcastic reply to former President Trump's remarks about data center opponents, suggesting a data center be built in Mar-a-Lago. Trump had previously stated on Truth Social that communities opposing data centers risked becoming "backwards and poor" and that such opposition aided China in the global tech race.
The political debate surrounding data centers has intensified, with even Republican Rep. Tim Burchett, typically an ally of Trump, expressing disagreement with the former president's characterization of opponents. The White House, through spokesman Davis Ingle, has advocated for expediting data center permitting and easing environmental regulations, asserting that AI infrastructure is crucial for job creation and U.S. competitiveness, while ensuring private companies cover their utility costs.
Despite the administration's pro-development stance, a recent Economist/YouGov poll revealed that most Americans oppose new data centers in their communities. This public sentiment, coupled with broader concerns about AI's impact on jobs, culture, and the environment, has led to concrete actions like Texas issuing an executive order to pause data center construction, signaling a growing political friction across the country.