Progressives push national pause on new data centers to curb energy and water use

A growing bloc of progressives on Capitol Hill is backing a nationwide moratorium on new data centers to slow energy and water use, with Sen. Bernie Sanders leading and Rep. Pramila Jayapal rallying behind it; supporters say a pause would let regulators catch up as the White House pushes AI growth, while Democrats across the spectrum warn it could hurt competitiveness, with local and state moves (New York, Denver) and mixed public opinion shaping the debate.