Michigan House Candidate Advocates for Federal AI Data Center Moratorium

Will Lawrence, a candidate for the Michigan House and member of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), called for a federal moratorium on new AI data centers during an interview on August 1, 2026. He emphasized the need for a national discussion on the implications of developing advanced AI technologies and ensuring that their benefits are widely distributed rather than concentrated among a few wealthy individuals. Lawrence expressed concerns that current practices undermine democratic principles and self-determination. He also criticized the influence of wealthy individuals from Silicon Valley and Wall Street on local communities, urging for campaign finance reform and public funding of elections to address the impact of money in politics. Lawrence is running in the Democratic primary for Michigan's 7th district, currently held by Republican Tom Barrett. He is competing against several other Democratic candidates, including Bridget Brink, a former U.S. ambassador to Ukraine.