200 Accounts Linked to Chinese Bot Farm Target US AI Policy Debate
Social media platform X reported that around 200 accounts linked to a suspected Chinese bot farm attempted to influence American views on AI data centres and energy policy. An investigation identified approximately 200,000 accounts, with 200 actively posting content that could manipulate discussions. Posts claimed that AI data centres strain the electricity grid and raise utility prices. This influence operation coincides with rising American concerns about data centres, with a University of Pennsylvania survey indicating that 61% of Americans oppose new data centres in their area. The House Energy and Commerce Committee has also sought briefings on foreign influence campaigns affecting US AI development, with reports estimating that such campaigns have delayed about $45.8 billion in data-centre projects in Virginia.
Published 4 hours ago • 29 Aug 2026, 09:01 PM IST