Data Center Supporters Hold D.C. Party Amid AI Backlash
Hundreds of people gathered at a cryptocurrency-themed bar in Washington, D.C., for an event supporting data centers. Organizers described the party as a response to what they called a bipartisan backlash against AI infrastructure. Industry speakers highlighted competition with China and argued that AI could improve the world.
The gathering took place at PubKey, a cryptocurrency-themed bar in downtown Washington. Organizers included Jonas Du, Ed Tarnowski, and Casey Given, who work in libertarian and conservative circles. Roughly a thousand people RSVP’d, and attendees ranged from engineers and small AI company leaders to federal employees, trade representatives, and journalists. Drinks referenced data centers, small nuclear reactors, and closed-loop systems.
Speakers emphasized competition with China and argued AI could benefit the world. The event came as surveys cited in the article showed most Americans opposed local data centers, with communities organizing against construction. Organizers said they wanted to bring together people who could help advance data center policy despite political friction.
The event may signal that data center advocates are trying to organize politically as local opposition grows. Residents in affected communities could see continued debates over siting and infrastructure, while industry workers and AI firms may push for faster approvals. If the party helps build alliances, it could influence state and local policy and public trust. Conversely, mocking opponents may harden divisions rather than resolve them.