OpenAI CFO Vows Continued AI Data Center Investment Despite Midterm Backlash

OpenAI's chief financial officer said the company will continue investing in AI data centers despite midterm election results showing voter backlash against them, citing real customer demand. Sarah Friar told CNBC on Friday that OpenAI must sustain infrastructure investment to meet demand, noting 1.2 billion weekly active users in Q3 and doubled enterprise revenue from clients like JPMorgan Chase. The company plans to strengthen partnerships with hyperscaler data center operators. OpenAI will address community opposition through local investments in school meals and parks, following its "National Community Compact" plan announced after Democratic victories. The company continues its funding round at a $1.25 trillion valuation, with $11 billion already wired, while considering an IPO next year.