San Francisco voters in the 11th congressional district are hearing contrasting views on a proposed nationwide moratorium on large, AI‑focused data centers. The question was posed to the two leading candidates, Supervisor Connie Chan and State Senator Scott Wiener, as part of the local “Meet the Candidates” series.

Connie Chan supports a moratorium

Chan, a 47‑year‑old District 1 supervisor who has lived in the city since age 13, argues that the United States can lead the world in artificial intelligence without forcing working families to bear the environmental and economic costs. She calls for a pause on new data‑center construction until Congress adopts comprehensive rules covering the economic, environmental and safety impacts of AI. Chan also highlighted her signing of the AI Pact, which pledges a people‑first approach and accountability for AI developers.

Scott Wiener opposes a blanket pause

Wiener, the 56‑year‑old state senator representing most of San Francisco, cautions against a blanket moratorium that could stifle technological progress. He likens unchecked AI development to past failures in regulating social media and data privacy, which harmed the public. While supporting targeted regulation to prevent data centers from being built in unsuitable locations and driving up electric bills, Wiener warns that a nationwide halt could undermine U.S. AI leadership and push companies to build facilities overseas.

Broader context

Both candidates have previously called for AI regulation, but their strategies diverge on how to balance innovation with community impact. The debate reflects growing grassroots pushback across California and the nation over the rapid expansion of data centers, which neighbors often criticize for noise, higher electricity costs and significant water usage.

Voters can learn more about each candidate’s full response through the Mission Local links provided in the original series. The “Meet the Candidates” feature will continue each week, offering concise, 100‑word answers from all contenders in the race.

Original reporting: Mission Local — read the source article.