Latent Space AI OpenAI Asks Washington to Reorient CHIPS Act Toward Compute
Nov 16, 2025
Executives argue that data centers are key for the future of AI systems. OpenAI is lobbying for changes to the CHIPS Act to expand support for these facilities. The discussion dives into potential economic impacts and energy concerns tied to government investments in data centers. OpenAI claims that broadening support could lower risks and attract private funding. The debate hinges on whether aiding AI infrastructure is a smart investment or merely corporate handouts.
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OpenAI's Massive Infrastructure Bet
- OpenAI plans massive infrastructure spending and is pushing policy changes to support it.
- The company expects huge long-term growth to justify those investments.
Request To Expand CHIPS To Compute
- OpenAI formally asked the White House to expand the CHIPS Act to include data centers, servers, and grid components.
- They argue this expansion would lower capital costs and unlock private investment for U.S. AI infrastructure.
Backstop Remark Triggered Scrutiny
- OpenAI's CFO sparked controversy by using the word "backstop," then Sarah Fryer clarified and walked it back.
- That incident prompted deeper scrutiny of OpenAI's government ties and requests.