Sam Altman knows people hate data centers
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman discusses the growing public backlash against AI and the construction of data centers. He acknowledges that while the industry faces significant headwinds, he remains optimistic about the long-term benefits of technological progress.
Why it matters
The tension between AI infrastructure expansion and local community opposition is a critical hurdle for the future of the artificial intelligence industry.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has acknowledged the headwinds the AI industry is facing. Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images OpenAI CEO Sam Altman knows people don't love AI right now. Altman told Time Magazine that "Clearly, people hate data centers—right now, at least." In the US, the AI industry is facing significant headwinds, especially in data center construction. Sam Altman doesn't need to see the polls . The OpenAI CEO knows how unpopular his industry has become. "Clearly, people hate data centers—right now, at least," Altman told Time as part of a series of interviews for a cover story published on Wednesday. "People are pretty negative on AI." Data centers in particular have become quite the pariah. Altman has previously spoken about the backlash against the industry, including local opposition to data center projects nationwide.
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