Fetterman Raises Energy Concerns, Three Mile Island Evacuation, and Carhartt Appreciation at Senate AI Hearing
Senator John Fetterman (D-Pa.) brought a unique perspective to Thursday’s Senate Commerce Committee hearing on artificial intelligence, engaging with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Microsoft Vice Chair Brad Smith on topics ranging from AI’s impact on society to the potential strain data centers could place on Pennsylvania’s energy grid. Fetterman’s remarks, punctuated by personal anecdotes and his signature Carhartt attire, highlighted both the promise and potential pitfalls of rapid technological advancement.
During his questioning of Altman, Fetterman acknowledged the apprehension many Americans feel towards AI, framing it as a legitimate concern that needed to be addressed. He complimented Altman on his technological contributions, expressing optimism about humanity’s capacity to adapt to the changes AI will bring. However, he also emphasized the importance of acknowledging and mitigating the risks associated with this transformative technology.
Altman responded with appreciation, both for Fetterman’s kind words and for the senator’s "normalizing hoodies in more spaces." He echoed Fetterman’s sentiments regarding the pace of AI development, describing it as an unprecedented technological revolution that requires careful consideration. While excited about the potential benefits, Altman stressed the need for caution and a thorough understanding of the implications. "I think this is beyond something that we all fully yet understand where its going to go," Altman noted, underscoring the immense scale of the changes AI is poised to bring.
Fetterman then shifted his focus to Microsoft Vice Chair Brad Smith, raising concerns about the increasing proliferation of data centers and their potential impact on utility costs for Pennsylvania residents. He underscored the critical link between energy security and national security, advocating for a diversified energy portfolio that includes both renewable energy sources and fossil fuels. "For me, energy security is national security," Fetterman stated, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to meet the growing energy demands of the digital age.
The senator specifically addressed the potential for data centers, fueled by AI and other advanced technologies, to drive up electricity prices for Pennsylvanian families. He highlighted the surge in land purchases in the mid-Atlantic region for the construction of these energy-intensive facilities, acknowledging the temporary job creation that comes with construction but emphasizing the need to protect ratepayers from undue financial burdens. "My focus is also that I want to make sure that ratepayers in Pennsylvania really hit too hard for throughout all of this," Fetterman said, advocating for policies that balance economic growth with affordability for ordinary citizens.
Adding a personal touch to the discussion, Fetterman brought up Microsoft’s interest in reviving a reactor at the infamous Three Mile Island (TMI) nuclear power plant in Dauphin County. He recounted his own experience as a child during the 1979 TMI meltdown, when he had to evacuate his home with his hamster. While acknowledging that the experience might lead one to assume he was anti-nuclear, Fetterman surprised many by stating his support for nuclear energy as a crucial component of a comprehensive climate change strategy.
"You might assume that I was anti-nuclear, and I actually am very supportive of nuclear because thats an important part of the stack if you really want to address climate change," Fetterman clarified, emphasizing his pragmatic approach to energy policy. He expressed his awareness of Microsoft’s plans to power its data centers with carbon-neutral sources, including the potential reactivation of the TMI reactor. Fetterman made it clear that any power purchase agreement associated with TMI’s revival must not result in increased electricity costs for Pennsylvania families.
"I really appreciate that, but if I’m saying now, if we’re able to commit that, the power purchase agreement, it’s not going to raise electricity for Pennsylvania families," he stated, highlighting his commitment to protecting his constituents from financial hardship.
Brad Smith responded to Fetterman’s concerns by outlining Microsoft’s commitment to responsible data center development. He assured the senator that the company planned to invest in the power grid an amount equivalent to the electricity it will consume, ensuring that its data centers would not strain the existing energy supply. Smith further pledged that Microsoft would manage its operations in a way that would not raise electricity prices for the community.
"No. 2, we’ll manage all of this in a way that ensures that our activity does not raise the price of electricity to the community," Smith stated, seeking to alleviate Fetterman’s concerns about the potential negative impacts of data center development on Pennsylvania’s ratepayers.
Fetterman’s participation in the Senate Commerce Committee hearing underscored the complex interplay between technological innovation, energy policy, and economic considerations. His unique blend of pragmatism, personal anecdotes, and commitment to his constituents offered a valuable perspective on the challenges and opportunities presented by the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence. His focus on energy security and affordable electricity rates highlights the importance of ensuring that technological progress benefits all Americans, not just a select few. The senator’s signature Carhartt outerwear, a symbol of his working-class roots, served as a visual reminder of his dedication to representing the interests of everyday Pennsylvanians in the halls of power.
