Trump Urges Tech Companies to Bear the Cost of Data Center Electricity

SadaNews - U.S. President Donald Trump addressed American voters' concerns about rising electricity prices, stating that his administration has held discussions with Microsoft to ensure that "consumers do not bear the massive cost" of large data centers.

Trump added in a post on the "Truth Social" platform that while data centers are "essential" for the AI boom, "the major tech companies that build them should pay for the costs themselves." He mentioned that "Microsoft" will make "major changes," without providing specific details.

Electricity prices have risen at a pace that exceeds general inflation rates, exacerbating complaints about the cost of energy and other necessities.

The rapid construction of data centers is widely viewed as one of the reasons for rising electricity prices in the United States, although it is not the only reason.

In any case, Democrats have made prices and inflation central arguments in the upcoming midterm elections scheduled for November.

Increasing Electoral Pressure

Trump is scheduled to visit a Ford Motor Company factory in Michigan on Tuesday and deliver a speech in Detroit aimed at promoting his trade and manufacturing policies while addressing voter concerns about the economy.

Microsoft did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Trump's post Monday evening. However, the company's Vice Chairman and President, Brad Smith, intends to make an announcement during an event being held in Washington on Tuesday.

The company said in a statement announcing the event, prior to Trump's post: "Microsoft has worked with communities to harness the power of technology to build a better future."

The statement continued: "As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, the country enters a new era of opportunities shaped by the power of artificial intelligence."

The statement added: "This moment raises fundamental questions about the future we are building together, including: who benefits from artificial intelligence, what are its potential impacts, and who should bear the cost of the vital infrastructure for artificial intelligence?".