Hundreds of people attended a pro-AI party in DC on September 26, in what the organizers called a counterprogram to the "bipartisan psychosis" over data centers

Data center developers now face a coordinated push to counter public and political opposition.

Hundreds of individuals, including tech professionals, entrepreneurs, and policy advocates, gathered at PubKey, a cryptocurrency-themed bar in Washington D.C., on September 26. The event, dubbed "Data After Dark," was organized by figures from libertarian and conservative think tanks and media companies. Its stated purpose was to counter what organizers described as "bipartisan psychosis" and a national backlash against the construction of AI data centers. Attendees celebrated data center infrastructure, with themed cocktails and discussions focused on AI's potential and the need to compete with China. Despite widespread public opposition and local organizing efforts against data centers due to environmental and infrastructural concerns, the party fostered an atmosphere of industry advocacy. Protesters who appeared at the event, raising concerns about environmental impact and AI dangers, were largely drowned out by chants and escorted away by attendees and security.

The "Data After Dark" party highlights a growing effort by the AI and data center industries to mobilize public and political support amidst rising community and legislative resistance. By hosting events that blend networking with political advocacy, organizers aim to shift the narrative from data center negatives to their perceived benefits and necessity for national progress. This defensive strategy suggests that the industry recognizes the increasing challenge posed by public opinion and environmental concerns, seeking to build a more robust coalition of support beyond just industry insiders.

The event underscores a strategic pivot for the tech sector, moving from a purely technical or business-focused approach to one that actively engages in political messaging and public relations to overcome regulatory hurdles and societal pushback. The presence of figures from libertarian and conservative circles indicates an attempt to forge a bipartisan (or at least cross-ideological) alliance against perceived "fear-mongering." The organized counter-messaging, including industry speakers and themed advocacy, signals that the battle over data center development is increasingly becoming a public relations and political campaign, not just a local zoning dispute.