Guthrie Seeks FBI, White House Probe Into China’s Role in Kentucky Data Center Pushback
Updated
Updated · POLITICO · Jun 16
Guthrie Seeks FBI, White House Probe Into China’s Role in Kentucky Data Center Pushback
2 articles · Updated · POLITICO · Jun 16
Summary
Rep. Brett Guthrie this month asked the FBI and White House to investigate whether China is helping bankroll opposition to data centers and AI projects, calling it a disinformation campaign against critical infrastructure.
The request comes as resistance has intensified in his Kentucky district: Breckinridge and Daviess counties approved 1-year moratoriums, and Meade County rejected a project after a petition drew 3,000 signatures.
Guthrie is also trying to balance that backlash with support for new projects, including a Hancock County development that could bring up to $14 billion in investment and start construction as early as 2027.
In Washington, he has opposed a national moratorium but backed legislation to ensure large power users such as data centers—not residential ratepayers—cover the grid costs tied to their electricity demand.
Industry groups say foreign influence is possible, but they also acknowledge the opposition is organic in many communities, underscoring how the fight is still being driven mainly by local politics.