Skip to main content
Senator John Fetterman called a proposed data center moratorium a “China First” objective on Wednesday. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
AI
Data center
John Fetterman
China
Regulation
Congress
Big Tech
Sam Altman
HUNT VALLEY, Md. (TNND) — Senator John Fetterman, the Pennsylvania Democrat, called a proposed data center moratorium a “China First” objective on Wednesday.
“The emerging chassis of AI must be built by America,” he said in a social media post. “We can put appropriate guardrails in place without handing the win on AI to China. A moratorium is China First.”
Fetterman’s congressional colleagues, Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, introduced a bill earlier in the day that would pause construction of the AI-powering facilities. They said the act would allow Capitol Hill to “catch up” to the technology, which is outpacing regulation.
“Congress is way behind where it should be in understanding the nature of this revolution and its impacts,” Sanders said in a statement. “Bottom line: We cannot sit back and allow a handful of billionaire Big Tech oligarchs to make decisions that will reshape our economy, our democracy and the future of humanity.”
Some AI executives have been receptive to regulation but are rejecting arguments that their models will dramatically change the world for the worse. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman wrote in a social media post earlier this month that the industry needs to have a relationship with the government to ensure that AI’s future stays bright.
“I think we are heading towards a world where the relationship between governments and AI efforts is critical,” he said on X. “This will be difficult but it has to happen; I do not see any good future where we don’t get there.”
Many lawmakers have been wary of restricting AI development, expressing concern that U.S. competitors, like China, could take the lead in the industry.
Comment with Bubbles
BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT
Have questions, concerns or tips? Send them to Ray at rjlewis@sbgtv.com.
“Local”
4
Calls grow for King County Assessor John Wilson to resign following criminal charges
5
Seattle Storm unveil 2026 home schedule packed with theme nights and fun freebies
10
Businesses around Climate Pledge Arena abuzz with news of potential SuperSonics return
15
From hummingbirds to bears, PAWS Wildlife Rehabilitation Center cares for WA’s animals