Exclusive: AI giants, unions join forces for data center fight
AI companies, private equity firms and unions are looking beyond 2026 in the data center debate , banding together to form a new multimillion-dollar coalition to make the case for responsible growth in seven key states. Why it matters: The new group, the American Infrastructure Alliance, wants to partner with state and local officials to create standards and guardrails for data centers in 2027.…
A new coalition, the American Infrastructure Alliance, is formed by AI companies, private equity firms, and unions to discuss responsible growth of data centers in seven key states. The group, backed by Blackstone, OpenAI, QTS, SoftBank Group, and unions such as the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), aims to create standards and guardrails for data centers in 2027, preventing moratoriums on new construction.
Tag Greason, co-CEO of QTS, emphasized the need for clear expectations, while Kenneth Cooper, IBEW's international president, warned against blanket bans on necessary infrastructure projects. Mark McManus, general president of the United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters (UA), highlighted the coalition's commitment to responsible development that benefits workers, communities, and the nation.
The group's polling suggests that data centers are unpopular in Ohio unless they keep electricity costs low, create jobs, and generate tax revenue. The American Infrastructure Alliance seeks to work with local officials rather than against them, ensuring that American workers and communities have a seat at the table as critical infrastructure is built.
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