Joe Miller
Feb 23, 2026 – 10.54am
About 200 residents gathered at a Methodist church in Independence, Missouri, on a recent cold Tuesday evening to express their concerns regarding the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) under the Trump administration. The meeting highlighted a growing unease among constituents who feel increasingly affected by AI developments in their communities.
One attendee, Lisa Garrett, a local resident living near a proposed $US6.6 billion ($9.3 billion) data center development spanning 162 hectares, noted, “I voted for this administration and didn’t really think about [AI] until it started to affect me.” Her sentiments reflect a broader apprehension among citizens who, until recently, may have viewed AI as a technological marvel rather than a potential disruptor to their daily lives.
The proposed data center, which aims to leverage advanced AI technologies, has been met with mixed reactions. While proponents argue it will create jobs and stimulate the local economy, critics express worries over environmental impacts and the implications for privacy and security. This development comes amid a nationwide push for AI integration across various sectors, raising questions about the balance between innovation and community welfare.
Residents at the meeting voiced their fears of job displacement and the ethical dilemmas posed by AI systems. As automation becomes more prevalent, many are concerned about their job security in a landscape increasingly dominated by intelligent machines. “We need to have a conversation about what this means for our livelihoods,” Garrett added, emphasizing the need for transparency in how these technologies will be implemented.
The event reflects a growing trend across the United States, where communities grapple with the implications of AI technologies. In recent years, local governments have started to formulate responses to the challenges posed by AI, including creating regulations to manage its deployment and safeguard the interests of their constituents. However, the responses have been inconsistent, often lagging behind the pace of technological change.
Furthermore, the Trump administration’s policies have encouraged AI development as part of a broader economic strategy. This has led to significant investment in tech infrastructure, yet it has also intensified scrutiny over the potential consequences of unchecked AI growth. The dialogue in Independence serves as a microcosm of a larger national conversation about the role of government in moderating the risks associated with AI while fostering innovation.
Experts argue that community engagement is essential in navigating the complexities of AI integration. “It’s critical for local voices to be heard in these discussions,” said a technology policy analyst. “If communities do not articulate their concerns, we risk advancing technologies that might not align with public interest.” This sentiment resonates with many attendees who feel their perspectives are often overlooked in favor of corporate interests.
As the meeting concluded, participants left with a sense of urgency about the need for further discussions on AI’s impact. Many pledged to remain vigilant and advocate for their community’s interests as the data center project moves forward. Garrett summarized the evening’s sentiment succinctly: “We have to make sure that technology serves us, not the other way around.”
The gathering in Independence underscores the critical need for dialogue among stakeholders, including local residents, government officials, and tech companies. As AI continues to evolve, the voices of communities will play a vital role in shaping a future where technology not only drives economic growth but also aligns with social values and public safety.
See also
OpenAI’s Rogue AI Safeguards: Decoding the 2025 Safety Revolution
US AI Developments in 2025 Set Stage for 2026 Compliance Challenges and Strategies
Trump Drafts Executive Order to Block State AI Regulations, Centralizing Authority Under Federal Control
California Court Rules AI Misuse Heightens Lawyer’s Responsibilities in Noland Case
Policymakers Urged to Establish Comprehensive Regulations for AI in Mental Health
