The Data Center Debate | AI's Biggest Bet or America's Biggest Bill?
Data centers are quickly becoming the backbone of the modern economy.
As AI drives a surge in demand for computing power, the United States faces a critical question: can it build the energy and infrastructure needed to support continued innovation — or will policy constraints slow progress?
Critics argue that data centers are placing a growing strain on energy systems while benefiting from tax advantages and preferential treatment — calling for greater intervention, including proposals to tax their expansion to fund public priorities.
Others counter that these concerns are often overstated. Data centers are essential infrastructure for a modern economy, driving innovation, supporting global services, and helping expand energy capacity when markets are allowed to respond.
Join the Bitcoin Policy Institute and Young Voices for an evening of discussion and debate on the future of data centers, energy policy, and economic growth.
The evening will begin with drinks, food, and informal networking, followed by brief opening remarks and a live, moderated debate between:
Christian Britschgi, Reporter at Reason Magazine, arguing that data centers are vital, low-impact infrastructure that should be allowed to scale with fewer barriers
Mark Moran, U.S. Senate candidate in Virginia, advocating for taxing data center expansion to address its broader economic and social costs
Moderated by Sam Raus, David Boaz Resident Writing Fellow at Young Voices.
The conversation will be followed by additional time for drinks, food, and continued discussion.
Is the AI infrastructure boom the foundation of a more abundant future — or a system that requires greater constraint?
Schedule - May 12, 2026
5:30 PM — Doors Open
Drinks, food, and informal networking
6:30 PM — Program Begins
Opening remarks from the Bitcoin Policy Institute
6:35 PM — Moderated Debate
A 30-minute discussion on data centers, energy, and AI infrastructure
Featuring Christian Britschgi and Mark Moran
Moderated by Sam Raus, Young Voices
~7:05 PM — Networking Continues
Return to drinks, food, and conversation
8:00 PM — Event Concludes
The Bitcoin Policy Institute is a 501(c)3 non-profit working to prepare America for the rise of Bitcoin. You can support BPI's mission here: https://btcpolicy.org/donate
Young Voices is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit talent agency that identifies and elevates the next generation of policy communicators. You can support Young Voices’ mission here: https://www.joinyv.org/donate
The American Conservation Coalition (ACC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to building the conservative environmental movement. You can support ACC's mission here: https://donate.acc.eco/donate