AI and Energy: Pennsylvania's New Direction, according to Sen. Dave McCormick
Investment in AI technology in old coal regions reportedly benefits local and national working class, according to politicians.
Sen. David McCormick, R-PA, shares his insights on the impact of technology and energy in 'Kudlow.'
EXCLUSIVE: During his childhood in Bloomsburg, Penn., a town nestled in the anthracite coal region, Sen. McCormick never imagined seeing a surge in cloud computing and AI industries that would breathe new life into the area. His vision was about to become a reality this week.
Amazon announced a whopping $20 billion investment in artificial intelligence infrastructure, constructing new data centers, their largest investment, historically, in Pennsylvania. The site near the Susquehanna River nuclear plant in Berwick, just a stone's throw from McCormick's hometown, showcases the scope and scale of Amazon's ambition.
Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro echoed McCormick, saying, "Pennsylvania is competing again."
*AMAZON'S HISTORIC $20 BILLION AI DATA CENTER INVESTMENT IN PENNSYLVANIA*
Amazon's significant investment offers a wealth of benefits:
- Job Creation and Economic Growth: The project could create 1,250 high-paying, tech-savvy jobs, injecting new life into rural Pennsylvania economies.
- Infrastructure Development: The data centers necessitate infrastructure development, boosting Pennsylvania's appeal for future businesses and residents.
- Workforce Development: Amazon's commitment to education ensures that the local workforce will be equipped for the challenging demands of the tech sector, enhancing employability and long-term economic stability.
- Community Revenue: The investment stands to generate substantial tax revenue, funding improvements in schools, public services, and community programs.
*SLASHING ENERGY DEVELOPMENT RED TAPE, BEATING CHINA IN 'AI ARMS RACE' IS A TOP PRIORITY*
"Pennsylvania should become a Data Center Mecca," says Sen. McCormick, "because we've got abundant energy, fantastic building trades, and skilled workers who can scale. It's a race against speed!"
Oil production in Pennsylvania dates back over 160 years, but the oil market has largely moved to the Gulf states. Still, the Nippon and Amazon deals are expected to save and create tens of thousands of jobs collectively.
When asked about critics of data centers, such as concerns regarding landowners' preferences or overburdening the current power grid, McCormick emphasized the necessity to continue expanding energy production capacity to meet the increasing demand.
A "robust energy industry" is crucial to facilitate growth in the tech sector, according to Sen. McCormick, citing President Trump's and Energy Secretary Chris Wright's "all of the above approach" to energy policy.
*$20 BILLION RURAL PENNSYLVANIA DATA CENTER INVESTMENTS SET TO BOOST LOCAL ECONOMY*
Berwick's strategic location off Interstate 80 and close to Interstate 81 could result in a local economic boom, generating trade, restaurant, and hotel jobs. Despite its proximity to a "ghost town" like Centralia and working-class coal communities, the Berwick project holds the key to revitalizing the region.
FOX Business' Danielle Wallace contributed to this report.
Enrichment Data:
Economic Revitalization
- Job Creation and Economic Growth: The $20 billion investment promises to create 1,250 high-paying tech jobs, infusing rural Pennsylvania economies with a much-needed boost.
- Transformation from Traditional Industries: With this significant investment, Pennsylvania moves away from its industrial past centered on coal and steel, transitioning towards a high-tech, sustainable economy.
- Infrastructure Development: The construction of AI infrastructure like data centers and related facilities will necessitate substantial investments in local infrastructure, making the region more attractive to future businesses and residents.
Social Impact
- Workforce Development: Amazon prioritizes workforce development programs, offering training for data center technicians, workshops, and scholarships for local students pursuing STEM education.
- Community Revenue: The investment is expected to generate substantial taxes, which will benefit local schools, public services, and community programs, enhancing the quality of life and services in these communities.
Historical Significance
- Shift from Industrial Past: This investment represents a significant shift for Pennsylvania from its industrial past to a future dominated by high-tech innovation, underscoring the state's commitment to attracting cutting-edge industries and creating sustainable economic opportunities.
- Competitiveness: The scale of investment and focus on AI and cloud computing position Pennsylvania as a leader in technological innovation, enhancing the state's competitiveness in the global tech landscape.
- Sen. Dave McCormick's vision of a revitalized Pennsylvania, once a coal-rich region, is becoming a reality with Amazon's $20 billion investment in AI infrastructure.
- This historic investment will bode well for the economy, creating 1,250 high-paying tech jobs and fostering economic growth in rural areas.
- In addition to job creation, the project will spur infrastructure development, making Pennsylvania an appealing destination for future businesses and residents.
- Amazon's focus on workforce development will equip the local workforce with the necessary skills for the tech sector, promoting long-term economic stability.
- The investment will generate substantial tax revenue, benefiting local schools, public services, and community programs, and positioning Pennsylvania as a leader in the growing AI industry.
