Stargate project

SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son dismissed Elon Musk's orbital data center concept, arguing that immediate Earth-based construction is more practical and cost-effective. SoftBank prioritizes terrestrial data centers and has committed $19 billion to the Stargate project led by OpenAI, aiming to build AI infrastructure in the U.S. over four years with a total $500 billion investment.

Residents and local governments across the U.S. are resisting the construction of AI-driven data centers due to environmental and community concerns, with some imposing moratoriums or bans. The Trump administration in 2025 accelerated federal permitting and supported projects like OpenAI's Stargate, while critics highlight impacts on rural areas, water, and air quality.

Port Washington, Wisconsin became the first city to pass a referendum restricting AI data center development, requiring voter approval for tax incentives over $10 million. The measure, supported by grassroots group Great Lakes Neighbors United, targets future projects but not the existing Vantage Data Centers deal. The initiative aligns with Trump's Stargate project, which aims to expand AI infrastructure across the U.S.

OpenAI has paused its Stargate UK project, which was part of a £31bn UK-US AI investment deal, citing high energy costs and regulatory challenges. The project aimed to boost the UK's AI capabilities but is now on hold due to these factors.

The article warns of the U.S. risking loss of freedoms through unchecked AI development, comparing it to China's authoritarian use of surveillance technology. It highlights U.S. initiatives like the Stargate Project and AI Action Plan while criticizing China's export of surveillance systems via the Belt and Road Initiative.