The AI Infrastructure Coalition, backed by Google, Meta, Microsoft, and other tech leaders, will announce pledges to address public backlash against AI data centres ahead of November’s midterm elections. The commitments include covering energy costs, funding local schools and hospitals, reducing water use, and prioritising local hires. Kyrsten Sinema, a former Democratic senator from Arizona now co-chairing the AIIC, stated the goal is to set a “gold standard” for responsible AI development that aligns with American values.

Polling shows growing opposition from both Democratic and Republican voters to data centres in their neighbourhoods, with over 1,000 communities attempting restrictions this year. More than 100 projects worth $200bn have been affected by protests and moratoriums, according to Data Center Watch and 10a Labs. Candidates like Mike Rogers in Michigan and Ken Paxton in Texas have taken anti-data-centre stances, while Donald Trump has defended the industry, dismissing safety concerns as a “hoax” spread by Chinese actors.

The coalition attributes some backlash to foreign misinformation but acknowledges genuine public concerns. AIIC-commissioned polling suggests voters support data centres more when presented with these community principles. Members including Andreessen Horowitz, Digital Realty, Entergy, Lumen, QTS, and PG&E have already pledged greater transparency and community engagement.

After a meeting with tech executives, Trump said they committed to working with local communities through oil, gas, education, and financial support, claiming nearby residents have become “very rich”. The US Senate may also vote on a proposal requiring AI companies to cover increased energy costs.