OpenAI Plans Post-Midterm PR Blitz, May Rebrand Data Centers as AI Compute Campuses by 2028
Updated
Updated · TechCrunch · Nov 1
OpenAI Plans Post-Midterm PR Blitz, May Rebrand Data Centers as AI Compute Campuses by 2028
3 articles · Updated · TechCrunch · Nov 1
Summary
OpenAI is preparing a public-relations push after Tuesday’s midterm elections, aiming to shape how voters and policymakers view AI ahead of the 2028 U.S. presidential race.
Chris Lehane, the company’s chief global affairs officer, told Axios he expects AI to be “the issue” in 2028 and called the midterms a preview of that debate.
The campaign is set to promote ideas including AI “speed limits,” a bigger U.S. role in global AI standards, and messaging that presents AI as a practical tool in daily life.
One proposal would recast data centers as “AI compute campuses,” a politically sensitive issue as local opposition has pushed Amazon and Microsoft to stop using NDAs in talks with communities.
Lehane said scrutiny of data-center projects is “good and healthy,” arguing communities should demand accountability and tangible local benefits from AI infrastructure.