Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) publicly opposed Gov. Josh Shapiro’s executive order restricting data center development in Pennsylvania, calling such restrictions ‘AI doomsdaying’ that could benefit China in the global AI race.
On Saturday, Fetterman shared a post on X (formerly Twitter) stating that ‘AI supremacy and energy dominance underpins our national security,’ adding that ‘China continues to fuel and benefit from our overreaction.’ His remarks followed Shapiro’s executive order on Tuesday, which limited new data center construction in Pennsylvania.
The senator’s comments reflect an ongoing debate over data centers, which power artificial intelligence models and have become a focal point in U.S.-China technological competition.
Fetterman’s Position on AI and Data Centers
Fetterman has repeatedly emphasized the need for the U.S. to lead in AI development, arguing that delays or restrictions could cede strategic advantages to China. In March, he opposed proposals to impose a moratorium on new AI data centers, calling such ideas ‘China First.’ He reiterated this stance in response to reports about Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) considering a pause on AI development, stating that ‘America must lead in the development of AI, otherwise we live under China's rules.’
Shapiro’s Executive Order and Rationale
Gov. Shapiro’s executive order, signed on Tuesday, restricts the development of new data centers in Pennsylvania, citing concerns over energy consumption and environmental impact. The order follows growing public and political scrutiny of data center growth, particularly regarding their strain on local power grids and water resources.
Reactions from Other Lawmakers
Fetterman’s stance aligns him with former President Donald Trump’s push for accelerated AI development, though the senator has framed his position primarily in terms of national security rather than partisan politics. His comments also contrast with progressive lawmakers like Sanders, who have raised concerns about AI’s impact on labor and economic equity.
The debate over data centers and AI development continues to evolve, with lawmakers, industry groups, and environmental advocates weighing in on the balance between technological advancement, economic growth, and sustainability.