politics
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott says China isn't behind the anti-data-center debate
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said his data center pivot was driven by legitimate concerns from Texans, not by Chinese propaganda.
TL;DR
- Texas Governor Greg Abbott denies that China is influencing the anti-data-center debate in the U.S.
- Abbott states his decisions are based on listening to constituents and addressing real problems they face.
- He points to Texas's power demand, which is projected to be five times its current capacity, as a primary concern.
- Abbott recently implemented new standards for AI data centers, including protecting residents from infrastructure costs and proposing a ban in rural areas.
- X claimed to have uncovered a Chinese bot farm posting disparaging content about data centers.
- Researchers dispute the effectiveness of the alleged Chinese campaign, noting that some bots had zero engagement.
- Some researchers suggest Big Tech companies, including X's owner Elon Musk, have a vested interest in promoting data center development.