Michigan House Candidate Advocates for AI Data Center Moratorium

Michigan House candidate Will Lawrence, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), called for a national moratorium on AI data centers. In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, Lawrence explained the need for a federal halt on these centers. He emphasized the importance of having a national dialogue on developing AI responsibly.

Speaking at a campaign event in South Lansing, Michigan, Lawrence stated, “There’s an urgent need to have a federal moratorium on new AI data centers. We need to discuss how to develop this advanced technology so everyone benefits, not just a few billionaires in Silicon Valley.” He expressed concern over the current approach, which he believes undermines democratic values and self-determination.

Billionaires from Silicon Valley and Wall Street are entering small towns, assuring residents that energy costs won’t increase, and promising broad benefits without transparency, said Lawrence.

In addition to supporting a data center ban, Lawrence criticized former President Trump’s policies and supported major campaign finance reforms. He advocates for publicly funded elections to reduce money’s influence on politics. He stated, “The influx of money in politics harms the democratic process.”

Lawrence also addressed the Citizens United vs. Federal Election Commission decision, which deemed political contributions a form of free speech. He argued for overturning this decision through a constitutional amendment, stating, “Ending Citizens United is crucial to tackling dark money in politics. Public financing should empower candidates with grassroots support by providing equal public funding for campaigns.”

At a rally in Lansing, Michigan, Lawrence spoke with other progressive supporters, including U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders and U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. They emphasized issues like halting AI data centers, stopping wars, and ensuring health care for all.

Lawrence, supported by left-leaning figures like Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez, is running in Michigan’s 7th district Democratic primary on August 4. He aims to unseat first-term Rep. Tom Barrett. Lawrence’s competitors include Bridget Brink, a former Obama National Security Council member and U.S. ambassador to Ukraine. Fox News Digital reached out to campaigns for Barrett, Brink, and the DSA for comments.