House Energy Committee Democrat Demands SpaceX Tour of AI Data Centers in Memphis
Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ), ranking member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, has demanded that SpaceX CEO Elon Musk provide records and a tour of the company's xAI data centers and power plants in Memphis, Tennessee. In a letter dated July 29, 2026, Pallone accused SpaceXAI of creating 'a massive health risk' by using natural gas-burning turbines without pollution controls or permits, leading to concerns about rising electricity prices, grid strain, and pollution. The facilities, known as Colossus and Colossus 2, house Nvidia processors and are central to SpaceX's AI ambitions. Pallone's demand comes amid rising public opposition to AI data centers, with a Gallup poll showing 70% of Americans oppose local construction. The Trump administration has intervened to help xAI fight a related environmental lawsuit filed by the NAACP.
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