OpenAI considers rebranding data centers to 'AI compute campuses" as data center backlash intensifies — company reportedly sees 2028 presidential election becoming an 'AI issue'

OpenAI is reportedly preparing a major public relations campaign to influence how Americans view artificial intelligence, including a proposal to rename its data centers as 'AI Compute Campuses,' Axios reports. The initiative comes ahead of the November 3 U.S. midterm elections and forms a broader effort to shape the AI debate before the 2028 presidential race.

Election Strategy

Chris Lehane, OpenAI's chief global affairs officer, noted that the midterms would be 'a bit of a movie trailer for what you're going to see in 2028.' He expects AI to be a major issue for presidential candidates as the technology raises concerns over its impact on jobs, the economy, and the environment.

Public Perception

The rebranding effort appears to be a response to growing backlash against data centers, which face criticism for their environmental impact and resource consumption. By changing terminology, OpenAI aims to frame its infrastructure in more positive terms as the technology becomes increasingly politicized.