Lost Debate The People vs. AI
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Feb 25, 2026 Andrew Chow, a Time reporter who profiled activists battling AI and data centers, discusses a surprising coalition from MAGA skeptics to democratic socialists. Short takes cover local fights stalling massive data projects. They trace money in local politics, risks of AI in weapons and surveillance, and whether companies will honor safety pledges under pressure.
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Right Wing Populists Oppose Big Tech AI
- AI opposition spans from MAGA-aligned advisors to democratic socialists, uniting unlikely allies against tech power.
- Andrew Chow profiles Joe Allen (Bannon adviser) showing right-wing distrust of Big Tech entwined with Trump-era ties.
Left Seeks Data Center Moratoriums
- Left activists push data center moratoriums over environmental, affordability, and local-impact concerns.
- Francesca Hong and Bernie Sanders back pauses because centers often rely on gas plants and pass utility upgrade costs to residents.
Local Activism Has Halted Billions In Projects
- Grassroots activism stalled nearly $98 billion in data center projects in Q2 2025 by leveraging local public comment processes.
- Activists flood council meetings, creating political pressure that makes local approvals untenable.
