Companies

House Democrats Propose Legislation to Block Tax Breaks for Data Centers Amid AI Expansion

House Democrats are introducing legislation to block federal tax breaks for data centers amid concerns about their expansion linked to the AI boom. The proposed bill, supported by multiple representatives, aims to address issues related to local input, resource strain, and the prioritization of corporate interests over community needs.

ESPN extends Joe Buck's contract for $108 million over six years

ESPN has extended Joe Buck's contract for six years at approximately $108 million, increasing his annual salary to $18 million. This deal secures Buck for upcoming Super Bowls and reflects ESPN's strategy of compensating star talent while making cuts elsewhere in the organization.

U.S. Open to Discuss AI Shared Risks with China, Treasury Secretary Bessent States

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that the U.S. is open to discussing shared risks with China in AI talks scheduled for this weekend. The discussions, which will take place in New York City, are expected to focus on AI safety cooperation, trade, and other economic issues, ahead of a summit between President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping on September 24.

Concerns Over AI's Environmental Impact Rise Among Americans

A recent poll indicates that over half of Americans are concerned about the environmental impacts of AI, with significant differences in concern levels between Democrats and Republicans. As lawmakers begin to address these concerns, the upcoming midterm elections may be influenced by public sentiment regarding AI. President Trump has emerged as a supporter of AI development, despite warnings about potential risks.

Lawsuits Filed in California Demand Return of Nazi-Looted Art Following New Legislation

Two lawsuits have been filed in California seeking the return of Nazi-looted artwork, following the enactment of new laws aimed at facilitating such claims. The lawsuits involve the daughters of Auschwitz survivor Dina Gottliebova Babbitt, seeking watercolors created under duress, and the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles, seeking a diptych from the Norton Simon Museum. These actions are part of a broader effort to reclaim art seized during World War II.

Debate Over A.I. Regulation and Safety Measures Intensifies

The debate over A.I. regulation is intensifying, with proposals in Congress suggesting strict measures against the development of superintelligent A.I. In contrast, Dario Amodei of Anthropic advocates for a more measured approach, emphasizing the need for safety to keep pace with advancements. Recent incidents, such as the Hugging Face hack, have raised concerns about the unpredictability of A.I. systems and the urgency for effective safety measures.

British Tourists May Face Increased Holiday Costs Due to Net Zero Targets

British tourists may face price increases of up to £600 for family holidays in Europe due to proposed Net Zero targets. The Climate Change Committee suggests that flight costs will rise significantly to reduce emissions and discourage flying. While the airline industry calls for affordable transitions, the government emphasizes the need for alignment with climate goals.

China Responds to Silicon Valley's Call for AI Collaboration

Silicon Valley leaders have shifted their stance on AI collaboration with China, advocating for joint efforts to mitigate risks. However, Chinese officials express skepticism, viewing the U.S. proposals as self-serving and detrimental to their interests. Despite these tensions, preliminary negotiations for cooperation on AI safety are reportedly in progress ahead of a meeting between the U.S. and Chinese leaders.

UK Inflation Rises to 3.1% Amid Concerns Over Energy Prices

UK inflation rose to 3.1% in August, up from 2.9% in July, driven by increasing transport costs and rising energy prices. Analysts predict inflation may peak at 4% next year, prompting expectations of interest rate hikes by the Bank of England. Recent labor market data shows a decline in payrolls and job vacancies, raising concerns about the economic outlook.

Complaints to Water Watchdog Increase by 84% Amid Rising Bills

Complaints to the Consumer Council for Water (CCW) regarding water companies have surged by 84% in the past year, driven by rising bills and customer dissatisfaction. The total number of complaints reached 15,115 in 2025-26, while direct complaints to water companies increased by 56% to 321,347. The CCW highlighted the need for improved communication from water companies regarding investments and customer service.

OpenAI CEO Advocates for Trust in AI Firms Amid Safety Concerns

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman called for public trust in AI firms while acknowledging concerns about the technology's rapid development. At a conference in San Francisco, he emphasized the industry's capacity for self-regulation amidst calls for greater governance from political figures. Altman and other AI leaders are working towards establishing industry-wide safety standards.

Bernie Sanders and Steve Bannon Speak on AI Concerns at Washington Event

Senator Bernie Sanders and Steve Bannon addressed concerns about artificial intelligence at a Washington event, emphasizing the need for public involvement in AI regulation. This coalition of progressives and MAGA activists is advocating for bipartisan legislation to ensure oversight of AI technologies. The event, organized by the Future of Life Institute, featured various speakers discussing the potential risks of AI and the importance of transcending partisan divides.

OpenAI CEO Discusses Trust and Regulation in AI Development

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman emphasized the need for public trust in AI companies while acknowledging concerns about the rapid advancement of AI technology. During a conference, he and other industry leaders discussed the importance of self-regulation and the establishment of safety standards in AI development. Political figures like Senator Bernie Sanders and Steve Bannon called for greater governance, expressing skepticism about the industry's ability to regulate itself.

Texas Senate candidate Talarico comments on democracy in resurfaced interview

Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico commented in a resurfaced interview that the U.S. is 'backsliding' on democracy and suggested looking to Western Europe for inspiration. His remarks drew attention on social media, including a response from Elon Musk. Talarico's campaign defended his comments amid criticism from Republicans regarding his past statements.

OpenAI Explores Financing Options Valued at $1.5 Trillion

OpenAI's CEO Sam Altman announced at Salesforce’s Dreamforce conference that the company is exploring new financing options, which would value it at $1.5 trillion. OpenAI is also planning an initial public offering in 2027.

JD Vance emphasizes voter turnout in 2026 midterms to support Trump agenda

Vice President JD Vance emphasized the importance of voter turnout in the 2026 midterms to support the Trump administration's agenda. He noted that Republicans need to engage their base and articulate future plans to attract voters, particularly traditional conservatives who have shown less enthusiasm for midterm elections. Current polling indicates that Democrats hold an advantage, and Vance's comments reflect a strategy to mobilize support ahead of the elections.

Delaware Republicans Nominate Joseph Arminio to Challenge Sarah McBride for U.S. House Seat

Delaware Republicans have nominated Joseph Arminio to challenge Democratic Rep. Sarah McBride for the state's U.S. House seat in the upcoming election. Arminio, a political scientist, won the nomination by defeating the party's endorsed candidate and its 2024 nominee. He aims to address economic issues, including inflation and rising living costs, as he seeks to unseat McBride, who became the first openly transgender member of Congress in 2024.

Trump Issues Ultimatum Regarding Kennedy Center Amid Financial Crisis

Donald Trump has issued an ultimatum regarding the Kennedy Center, demanding that he be allowed to place his name on the building in exchange for support for its renovation. This comes after a federal judge blocked an attempt to add his name. The Kennedy Center is reportedly facing financial collapse and potential bankruptcy, complicating the situation further.

Trump to Visit North Carolina to Support Republican Senate Candidate

President Donald Trump is scheduled to visit North Carolina on Wednesday to support Republican Senate candidate Michael Whatley, who is facing challenges in fundraising and polling against Democratic opponent Roy Cooper. Trump's visit is seen as a crucial effort to energize Republican voters ahead of the upcoming election, with significant financial backing for Whatley's campaign from the Republican Party.

Alex Saab pleads guilty to money laundering and fraud in US court