AI and data centers emerge as issue in Michigan Democratic Senate primary

Abdul ElSayed, a progressive candidate in Michigan’s Aug. 4 Democratic Senate primary, is making artificial intelligence and data centers central issues in his campaign against Rep. Haley Stevens. ElSayed argues that rapid AI development and the spread of data centers could raise costs, affect jobs, and create environmental concerns unless they are tightly regulated. His proposals include public oversight, worker protections, limits on utility rate increases, and other guardrails on the technology. Stevens, a moderate Democrat, has taken a more measured approach. Her campaign says she supports innovation while also pushing for job training, antidiscrimination protections, and efforts to prevent higher costs for Michigan residents. The race is closely watched because Democrats hope to keep the seat after Sen. Gary Peters steps aside, and the winner will likely face former Rep. Mike Rogers in the general election.