tech
States shouldn't reap AI benefits without bearing costs
The Constitution “was framed upon the theory that the peoples of the several states must sink or swim together, and that in the long run prosperity and salvation are in union and not division.” States racing to block data center construction have forgotten that lesson. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and others echoing his idea to pause data centers are daring state legislators to take a short-term perspective that prioritizes state interests over the nation’s collective ambitions. If they have their way, Congress and states may delay or even deny data center construction for years.
TL;DR
- States blocking data center construction prioritize state interests over national unity, a principle established by the Constitution.
- Data centers are the physical infrastructure of the internet and are essential for AI development, which impacts economic prosperity and national security.
- National AI development requires a coordinated build-out of data centers, which should ideally be located in areas with necessary resources like water and power.
- If states opt out, data center development will occur in less efficient locations, increasing costs and hindering national AI potential.
- A national strategy is needed to address the distribution of costs and benefits associated with data center development, rather than allowing states to avoid their responsibilities.