Eric Adams, former Mayor of New York City, encountered significant opposition during a meeting in Wisconsin. He aimed to promote a proposed AI data center but faced boos from the audience. The interaction lasted for eight minutes, filled with insults and interruptions.
One attendee accused Adams of belonging ‘in prison’, a reference to his dismissed federal corruption case. Since leaving office, Adams has promoted real estate-related technology companies, boasting an 80% success rate in his deals. At the meeting, he spoke on behalf of PNK Group, which plans to develop a data center on 209 acres of land at an old paper mill site along the Wisconsin River.
Whether we like it or not, folks, data centers are going to be here,
Adams stated, trying to convince the crowd.
The proposal met with strong resistance from many Wisconsin residents. Some shouted accusations like You’re here to steal our water!
, while others yelled Get out of here!
and Put it in your backyard!
Anyone can heckle, but not everybody can communicate,Adams remarked, attempting to calm the situation. He invited questions, hoping for a constructive dialogue.
Adams defended the data center, sharing a personal story about how AI assisted his doctor in diagnosing his Type 2 diabetes. Despite his efforts, boos interrupted him.
After the heated exchange, Adams’ communications officer, Todd Shapiro, clarified the situation. Shapiro noted that media reports didn’t capture the full event. He mentioned that many attendees approached Adams later to thank him and ask questions.
Shapiro emphasized Adams’ role in educating communities on economic opportunities related to responsible AI and data center development. Adams has supported initiatives encouraging investment, job creation, and strengthening local economies.