‘Our Risk, Their Reward’: Zohran Mamdani on AI and Data Centers

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani discussed artificial intelligence and data centres in an interview reflecting on his first months in office and the challenges of governing. He argued that the benefits of AI should be shared with the public, while communities should not be left to bear the costs and risks of the infrastructure powering it.

Mamdani said data centres can bring jobs and tax revenue, but also consume substantial electricity and water and may raise energy costs for residents. He called for a public-interest approach to AI, including transparency about its impacts and a fairer distribution of gains. The interview also covered his use of social media and his approach to leading the city.