Will Lawrence, a Michigan House candidate and member of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), called for a national moratorium on new AI data centers. During an interview with Fox News Digital, Lawrence emphasized the need for a national conversation on the benefits and risks of creating hyper-intelligent AI. He argued that the development of AI should benefit everyone, not just Silicon Valley billionaires.
Speaking at a campaign event in South Lansing, Lawrence stated his support for the moratorium, suggesting current practices are undermining democratic foundations. He highlighted concerns about billionaires influencing small communities by promising benefits such as stable energy costs, while implying that the reality may differ.
Lawrence said, “There’s an urgent need for a federal moratorium so we can determine the best way to generate super-intelligent AI and ensure it benefits all, rather than a few.”
Lawrence also criticized former President Donald Trump’s policies and pushed for significant campaign finance reform. He advocated for publicly funded elections to limit the influence of money in politics, expressing that Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission, a 2010 Supreme Court ruling, damaged the democratic process.
He argued that overturning Citizens United with a constitutional amendment was necessary to end “dark money” in politics. Lawrence proposed public financing for campaigns, allowing candidates with grassroots support equal access to public funding.
Although questioned about other DSA policies—such as eliminating the presidency or the Senate—Lawrence remained focused on his campaign priorities. He emphasized the importance of halting AI data centers and providing universal healthcare.
Lawrence’s campaign receives support from prominent progressives like Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. He is a contender in the Democratic primary for Michigan’s 7th district, aiming to compete against current Republican Representative Tom Barrett in November’s election.
Competing with several Democratic candidates, including Bridget Brink, Lawrence seeks to secure the nomination. The campaigns for Barrett and Brink did not immediately respond for comment.