China accused of using bot networks to target US AI infrastructure

During a House Foreign Affairs subcommittee hearing on covert foreign influence, witnesses testified that China is utilizing bot networks, state media, and domestic groups to foster public opposition to artificial intelligence infrastructure in the United States.

Sam Lyman, head of research at the Bitcoin Policy Institute, testified that Beijing employs a “documented double standard” by promoting arguments against US data centers—such as concerns over electricity prices, power grid pressure, and environmental costs—while simultaneously subsidizing up to half of the energy costs for AI data centers within China. Lyman noted that the social media platform X identified approximately 200,000 suspected fake accounts from China in August, with some specifically targeting US data center projects.

Additionally, Lyman alleged that a network of US-based nonprofit organizations, supported by Shanghai-based businessman Neville Roy Singham, has amplified criticism of the American technology industry. According to the testimony, these activities influenced 21 campaigns across 14 states, contributing to delays or reductions in approximately $23.6 billion of proposed AI infrastructure investment, including 10 data center moratoriums and several rejected or abandoned projects.