Former Trump and Obama Advisers Release Bipartisan Data Center Framework
A new bipartisan framework proposes federal guidelines for AI data center development to protect ratepayers and maintain local zoning control.
Former Trump and Obama Advisers Release Bipartisan Data Center Framework
A new bipartisan framework proposes federal guidelines for AI data center development to protect ratepayers and maintain local zoning control.
Bipartisan Framework for Data Center Rules
Former economic advisers from the Obama and Trump administrations have introduced a joint policy framework addressing the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence infrastructure in the United States. Robert Wolf, serving under the Obama administration, and Stephen Moore, advising the Trump administration, published a proposal aimed at navigating the surge in data center rules and construction.
Released around October 22 through October 23, 2026, and published by Unleash Prosperity Now, the document is titled “Beyond the ‘Wild West’ and Moratorium: A Bipartisan Framework for Smart and Responsible Data Center Investment.” The authors reject both a completely unregulated market and total bans, advocating instead for coordinated federal standards alongside localized control over site selection.
Core Priorities of the Federal Proposal
The framework focuses on five distinct areas intended to guide federal oversight of data center development. These include ratepayer protection, which would require developers to cover the incremental infrastructure costs their projects introduce to the power grid, ensuring ordinary residential customers do not absorb the financial burden.
Additional focus areas involve energy security, environmental stewardship encompassing comprehensive water and energy assessments, transparency with community engagement prior to breaking ground, and local flexibility allowing states to adapt federal standards while retaining siting authority. The proposals emerge amid widespread legislative activity, including over 300 state-level bills proposed in 2026 and the introduction of the bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act in the Senate.
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