- Trump said Monday that communities across the country pushing back on AI data centers will face negative economic consequences, adding the 'only reason' they would not want the facilities 'is if they want to end up being backwards and poor.'
- Kentucky politicians, including Rep. Adam Moore and Rep. Savannah Maddox, have pushed back against Trump's remarks, with Moore stating that the Republican Supermajority passed tax breaks to attract data centers and criticized Trump for insulting those voicing concerns.
- Ocasio-Cortez suggested building a data center near Mar-a-Lago in response to Trump's comments, quipping, 'How about we put one in Mar-a-Lago? I love that.'
- Rep. Savannah Maddox expressed concern over Trump's comments, stating that rural communities should not be labeled as 'backwards and poor' and emphasized the importance of questioning the conversion of arable land into data centers.
- Kentucky Democratic Party Chair Colmon Elridge criticized Trump's remarks, stating they reflect the priorities of the opposing party and highlighting that the state legislature blocked proposals to regulate data centers while granting corporations significant tax breaks.
Former President Donald Trump has sparked controversy by labeling cities that resist AI data centers as 'backwards and poor,' claiming they will suffer economically. He stated, “If they want to be successful and rich, with far lower taxes and jobs all over the place, let Data Reign.”1
In response, Rep. Adam Moore of Kentucky criticized Trump, asserting that local concerns about the impact of data centers on communities should not be dismissed. He emphasized, “Protecting our local communities and energy grid shouldn’t be a partisan issue.” Moore's remarks reflect a broader sentiment among Kentucky politicians who feel that the push for data centers prioritizes corporate interests over local needs.2
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez humorously suggested placing a data center near Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate, saying, “Let’s put a data center up in Mar-a-Lago, we’ll see how backwards and poor he is in response to that.” This comment highlights the ongoing debate about the economic implications of such facilities, with a recent survey indicating that 70 percent of respondents oppose AI data centers in their areas, including 60 percent of Republicans and more than three-fourths of Democrats.3
Trump's comments have drawn criticism from various political figures, including GOP Rep. from Tennessee, who stated, “I guess I’m backwards and poor,” advocating for more local control over such developments. The debate continues as communities weigh the potential economic benefits against the risks to their local environments and economies.
“Kentucky Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear said data centers don't need incentives, supporting rolling back tax breaks. A survey last month found 70% of respondents opposed an AI data center in their area, including 6 in 10 Republicans.”
