Michigan House candidate and Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) member Will Lawrence advocated for a national moratorium on new AI data centers during a campaign event in South Lansing, Michigan, on August 1, 2026.

Lawrence emphasized the need for a federal pause to allow a national conversation on the development of hyper-intelligent AI. He stated, "What's the best way to do it, and how do we ensure that it benefits everybody rather than just a few billionaires in Silicon Valley?" He criticized current data center developments as "abandoning the basic principles of democracy and self-determination that are foundational to the American identity."

Lawrence also accused billionaires from Silicon Valley and Wall Street of entering small towns with assurances that energy bills would not rise, implying skepticism about their impact on local communities.

In addition to his stance on AI data centers, Lawrence called for major campaign finance reform, supporting the overturning of the Supreme Court's Citizens United decision through a constitutional amendment. He advocates for public financing of elections to provide equal funding opportunities for candidates with legitimate grassroots support.

He further urged investigation into alleged foreign influence in the fight against data centers, highlighting concerns about external interference.

Lawrence's campaign focuses on stopping AI data centers, ending wars globally, and ensuring universal health care.

Sources