Dan Osborn, an independent running for the US Senate in Nebraska, found unlikely allies during his campaign. A supporter approached him with concerns about artificial intelligence (AI) and data centers, leading them to agree on a set of five promises included in the AI Pact.

The pact includes advocating for safety reviews, creating an AI dividend for workers, and ensuring legal recourse for those harmed by AI models. It was created by the Political Integrity Project, which has similar pledges for candidates seeking office.

More than 15 politicians have signed on, mostly Democrats, although some Republicans like Justin Pearson from Tennessee are also involved. The pledge avoids an outright ban on data centers but calls for policies that would limit tax breaks and energy usage.

With concerns about AI's environmental impact and the power dynamics surrounding data centers, the pact aims to provide a baseline for politicians. However, it faces criticism for potentially supporting projects that could harm other workers in the long run. As AI development accelerates, such pledges may become increasingly relevant.