Rep. McCormick Warns Against Slowing AI Buildout

How Can Data Centers Grow Without Harming Communities?

Representative Rich McCormick appeared on Bloomberg This Weekend on August 23, 2026, alongside hosts David Gura and Christina Ruffini, to advocate for continued expansion of data centers across the United States. He argued that maintaining momentum in AI infrastructure is critical to preserving national leadership in artificial intelligence, emphasizing that such development can proceed responsibly while delivering tangible benefits to local communities.

McCormick stressed that slowing the buildout of data centers would undermine U. S. competitiveness in AI, particularly as global rivals accelerate their own investments. He pointed to job creation, increased tax revenues, and improved digital infrastructure as direct advantages for regions hosting these facilities. The congressman also noted that modern data centers can be designed with energy efficiency and environmental safeguards, countering concerns about their ecological footprint.

What Happens If the U. S. Slows Its AI Infrastructure Push?

McCormick explained that responsible development involves strict adherence to local zoning laws, investment in renewable energy sources, and collaboration with state and regional planners. He cited examples where data center projects have funded upgrades to local power grids and broadband access, creating ripple effects beyond the facilities themselves. By prioritizing transparency and community engagement, he believes public support can be sustained even as scale increases.

The representative warned that a pause or slowdown in data center construction could cede technological advantage to nations with more aggressive AI strategies, potentially affecting national security and economic innovation. He linked strong domestic AI capacity to resilience in sectors like healthcare, defense, and scientific research. Without adequate infrastructure, he argued, the U. S. risks losing its ability to train and deploy cutting-edge AI models at scale.

Why does Rep. McCormick believe data centers can be built responsibly? He argues that modern data centers can incorporate energy-efficient designs, use renewable power, and follow strict environmental and zoning regulations, minimizing negative impacts while maximizing local benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific benefits does he highlight for local economies? McCormick cites job creation during construction and operation, increased tax revenue for municipalities, and ancillary improvements like upgraded power grids and broadband access that often accompany data center projects.

What risk does he associate with slowing AI infrastructure development? He warns that reducing investment in data centers could allow other countries to surpass the U. S. in AI capabilities, weakening national competitiveness and potentially compromising advancements in critical sectors such as defense and healthcare.