Humans First Plans July 18 Anti-Data Center Rallies in 5 States as AI Backlash Reaches Trump Base
Updated
Updated · The Washington Post · Jun 22
Humans First Plans July 18 Anti-Data Center Rallies in 5 States as AI Backlash Reaches Trump Base
2 articles · Updated · The Washington Post · Jun 22
Summary
July 18 rallies across five states are being organized by Humans First to oppose data-center expansion, marking a new conservative push against AI companies and their energy-hungry infrastructure.
Amy Kremer, the group's chair and a former Tea Party organizer, says the campaign is driven by fears of unchecked AI power, job losses, self-harm risks tied to chatbots and Silicon Valley influence over Washington.
That pressure is exposing a split inside President Donald Trump's coalition, as populist conservatives challenge the administration's largely hands-off AI stance and its ties to wealthy tech backers.
The White House has already softened parts of its AI approach under MAGA backlash, preserving some state authority over data centers, while a recent Trump order imposed only limited federal oversight after internal fights.
Humans First had tried to build a bipartisan anti-AI coalition, but its left and right wings are now separating even as broader public concern over electricity costs and AI safety keeps growing.