Amazon investigates engineers over criticism of AI data center expansion

Amazon is investigating three engineers after they publicly criticized the company’s rapid expansion of AI data centers during Seattle City Council meetings, according to a complaint filed with the city’s Office for Civil Rights. The employees argued for stronger regulation of large data centers and supported a oneyear pause on new projects while the city develops policy. They said the pace of AI infrastructure spending is coming at a high social and environmental cost. Amazon said it is reviewing whether the employees spoke as private individuals or as representatives of the company. The workers, who are part of Amazon Employees for Climate Justice, say the investigation has left them feeling pressured and could result in discipline, including possible termination.