Bernie Sanders Pushes for Data Center Development Pause to Let 'Democracy Catch up' With AI

Bernie Sanders says he will push for a moratorium on new AI‑powering data centers, arguing that the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) needs stronger democratic oversight.

The Influence of the Billionaire Class

U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, D-VT, has said he will push for a moratorium on the construction of data centers powering what he called the “unregulated sprint to develop and deploy artificial intelligence.” Sanders argues that such a moratorium is necessary to give “democracy a chance to catch up” and ensure the “benefits of technology work for all of us, not just the 1%.”

In a video shared via X, the politician acknowledged that AI and robotics are transformative technologies that will have a profound impact on Americans. However, Sanders, who has repeatedly criticized billionaires and their influence, questions their role in pushing these technologies. According to him, billionaires including Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg, are driven by personal interests rather than altruism.

Read more: Is the AI Boom Running on Hot Air? Markets Say Maybe

Sanders also highlights the likely adverse economic impact of AI and robotics on working-class Americans. To support this view, Sanders cited statements by Musk, Bill Gates, and the CEO of Anthropic suggesting millions of working Americans will not be needed in the age of AI and robotics. Sanders suggested that many people, including those in Congress, are not paying enough attention to this matter or fail to comprehend what will happen if millions of Americans are left without an income source.

The Vermont Senator also highlighted the less-discussed impact of AI on society, particularly young Americans who have become more accustomed to interacting with AI than humans.

“Millions of kids in this country are becoming more and more isolated from real human relationships, are getting their emotional support from AI. Think for a moment about a future when human beings are not interacting with each other and spending virtually all of their time with devices instead of people,” Sanders warned.

To pre-empt this and other AI-related problems, Sanders said all Americans need to be involved in determining the future of AI, not just a handful of billionaires.

FAQ 💡

• Why is Sanders calling for a moratorium on AI data centers? He says a pause is needed to let democratic oversight catch up with rapid AI deployment.
• What concerns does he raise about tech leaders? He questions whether billionaire‑driven AI development serves public interests.
• How does he view AI’s economic impact? He warns that automation could displace millions of working‑class Americans.
• What social risks does he highlight? He cautions that young people may become isolated as they increasingly rely on AI over human relationships.