Exclusive / Republican senator rails against AI data centers
Senator Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) stated that his constituents are strongly against AI data centers and supports local moratoriums enacted by "several dozen counties" in Kansas. He criticized tax incentives for data centers due to their strain on local utilities and minimal job creation. Marshall advocates for local decision-making on data center moratoriums, contrasting with New York's statewide approach, and raised national security concerns regarding AI infrastructure.
Senator Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) highlighted significant constituent backlash against artificial intelligence data centers during Semafor's World of Work event, stating that Americans are "on fire" against them. He reported that "several dozen counties" in Kansas have already implemented moratoriums on data center construction, actions which he fully supports. Marshall, who is seeking re-election, emphasized that this growing opposition, coupled with concerns about job displacement, is fostering a negative perception of AI across the U.S., potentially impeding the progress of companies developing advanced AI models.
Marshall voiced his disapproval of tax incentives for data centers, arguing that these facilities place considerable strain on local infrastructure, particularly water and electricity resources, while offering few permanent jobs post-construction. He cited rising electricity rates near Panasonic's new plant in Kansas as a cautionary example of how escalating energy demands from such facilities could lead to increased costs for residents.
However, the Republican senator stopped short of endorsing a statewide moratorium on data center development, such as the one recently enacted by New York Governor Kathy Hochul. Marshall maintained that decisions regarding moratoriums should remain at the local level. Nevertheless, he acknowledged the potential for congressional intervention on issues related to the national security implications of AI infrastructure, warning that the convergence of AI and quantum computing could compromise blockchain technology and encryption, thereby empowering foreign adversaries and terrorist groups.