A new report argues the U.S. federal government is prioritizing AI development and data center expansion over societal and ecological well-being. This "AI First" strategy, driven by political decisions and corporate influence, funnels resources into AI infrastructure, neglecting critical areas like green energy and public services. The report criticizes subsidies and deregulation facilitating this buildout.

The government's approach involves entrenching AI as a national strategic priority through procurement, particularly for militarism and surveillance. It also entails weakening antitrust enforcement and allowing industry lobbyists to shape policy. This focus warps electricity infrastructure around data centers, potentially delaying the retirement of fossil fuel plants, leading to significant costs for ratepayers and public health risks.

Companies like Microsoft, Meta, and Alphabet are cited for avoiding substantial federal taxes, while government policies provide infrastructure tax breaks and subsidies. This corporate-friendly fiscal approach diverts capital from socially useful projects. Local opposition to data centers has already blocked projects worth $156 billion in 2025 alone, signaling a growing demand for public-interest driven development.

The report advocates for redirecting state capacity toward socially beneficial green infrastructure and public services. It calls for democratic planning to slow AI deployment and build public computing infrastructure, invest in a grid for social needs, and expand public investments that benefit people and the planet, rather than serving AI investors.