OpenAI shifts strategy to win over data center skeptics after election losses

OpenAI announced new policies Thursday to build trust with local communities and counter opposition to its data center projects, following Democratic victories in US midterm elections widely seen as a repudiation of tech industry expansion plans. The AI lab will stop using non-disclosure agreements with public officials during site negotiations and will share construction plans with residents, including details on traffic, noise, and lighting impacts. OpenAI's chief global affairs officer Chris Lehane said the centers would provide ongoing jobs, as hardware requires updates every three to five years. Democratic candidates who promised to pause data center permits and tighten construction rules flipped governorships in Texas, Georgia, and Ohio, causing shares of data center operators to tumble. OpenAI has sought ties with President Donald Trump's administration, with CEO Sam Altman donating $1 million to his inaugural committee.