Conservative anti-data center group brings bus tour to Bessemer
Humans First, a conservative grassroots organization, brought its bus tour to Bessemer, Alabama, to warn against unregulated AI data center construction and advocate for local control. The group highlighted Project Marvel in Bessemer and a Nebius project in Birmingham's Oxmoor Valley as examples of unchecked development. They expressed strong opposition to the lack of public input and the potential impacts on land, water, and electricity.
Humans First, a conservative grassroots organization, launched its "Data Center Revolt Bus Tour" in Bessemer, Alabama, to raise concerns about the unregulated development of AI data centers. Amy Kremer, chair of Humans First, declared Bessemer "ground zero" for Big Tech's expansion in Alabama, citing the planned 1,600-acre "Project Marvel" in Bessemer and a Nebius AI data center project in Birmingham's Oxmoor Valley.
The group advocates for local communities to have a stronger say in data center construction, highlighting issues such as enormous electricity demands and the potential effects on land and water resources. While Humans First does not support national or statewide moratoriums, it strongly opposes the current lack of public input in data center development decisions.
The debate over data centers has become a contentious issue in Alabama's gubernatorial race, with Democratic nominee Doug Jones criticizing Republican U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville for dismissing concerns. Kremer warned that ignoring grassroots opposition to data centers could cost Republican officials votes, emphasizing the conservative base's anger over what they perceive as corporate welfare benefitting AI data centers and their impact on communities.