When asked where data centers should be built, major AI systems generally favored a cautious approach that balances economic benefits with community concerns. “I'd rather see a data center replace an abandoned steel mill than a farm or subdivision,” the AI said. For example, in Caledonia, Wisconsin, Microsoft decided not to proceed with data center plans after facing significant community pushback. Much of the Southwest should not be considered for new data center builds because it is a water-stressed area, Claude said. Claude also had something to say about the economic impact of data centers.