Will Lawrence, a House candidate from Michigan and a member of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), called for a national moratorium on new AI data centers during a recent interview. He emphasized the need for a federal pause to facilitate a nationwide discussion about the development of hyper-intelligent AI.
At a campaign event in South Lansing, Michigan, Lawrence expressed concerns about ensuring AI benefits the wider public rather than enriching a few wealthy individuals in Silicon Valley. He criticized the way data centers are currently being established, arguing that the process undermines democracy and self-determination.
Lawrence highlighted cases where billionaires from Silicon Valley and Wall Street enter small communities with promises that ultimately raise energy bills and provide questionable benefits.
In addition to supporting the data center ban, Lawrence criticized former President Donald Trump’s policies. He also advocated for campaign finance reforms such as publicly financed elections, aligning with other DSA members.
Lawrence criticized the Supreme Court’s decision in Citizens United vs. Federal Election Commission. This 2010 ruling deemed political contributions as a form of free speech protected by the First Amendment. Lawrence suggested overturning the decision through a constitutional amendment and promoting public financing that grants equal campaign funding to candidates with genuine grassroots support.
When asked about broader DSA policies, which could potentially alienate centrist voters, Lawrence avoided discussing topics like abolishing the Supreme Court or the Presidency. Instead, he focused on AI data centers, ending wars, and universal healthcare.
Acknowledged by influential figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Lawrence is competing in the Democratic primary scheduled for August 4, aiming to secure the House seat in Michigan’s 7th district. This seat is currently held by Rep. Tom Barrett, a Republican.
Lawrence will face off against several Democratic contenders, including Bridget Brink, a former member of the Obama National Security Council and U.S. ambassador to Ukraine.
Fox News Digital reached out to the Barrett, Brink campaigns, and the DSA for comments.