A Marxist-Leninist organization with suspected ties to Chinese Communist Party-linked funding networks has successfully blocked billions in American artificial intelligence infrastructure projects across Virginia and at least 13 other states, raising urgent questions about foreign influence in local zoning battles.
Local Opposition, National Pattern
Jack Tensley, an organizer with the Party of Socialism and Liberation, testified before the Frederick County Planning Commission in January against proposed AI data center developments. He warned commissioners about security risks, energy costs, and potential cyber vulnerabilities. His testimony came as part of a broader campaign that led to the county board voting 10 to 0 in June to reject a 220-acre development in Clearbrook, Virginia, and 7 to 1 against a separate 71.8-acre Winchester project.
The Bitcoin Policy Institute discovered PSL has organized opposition campaigns targeting approximately $23.6 billion in AI infrastructure investments nationwide. The nonpartisan cryptocurrency think tank documented anti-data center efforts spanning 14 states, revealing a coordinated strategy rather than isolated local activism. PSL openly states its mission is carrying out the struggle for socialism inside America, declaring capitalism a failed system threatening global ecological destruction.
Shanghai Connection Raises Alarms
Congressional investigators have focused attention on Shanghai-based businessman Neville Roy Singham, who sold his technology company for $800 million in 2017 before relocating to China. Since then, Singham has directed $278 million into a network of American nonprofits according to investigative reporting. These organizations frequently participate in demonstrations opposing Immigration and Customs Enforcement, supporting Iran, and criticizing Israel.
The Bitcoin Policy Institute identified overlapping leadership between PSL and multiple Singham-funded nonprofits, though direct financial connections remain unconfirmed. Singham faces congressional scrutiny over reported Chinese Communist Party ties. Senator Tom Cotton wrote to acting Attorney General Todd Blanche warning that foreign actors led by the Chinese Communist Party may be manipulating American policy and public opinion regarding data center development through this network of American nonprofits.
Strategic Infrastructure at Stake
The campaigns against AI data centers come as the United States races to build infrastructure essential for artificial intelligence development and national technological competitiveness. Local zoning fights over electricity consumption and land use have become potential vectors for larger political movements to influence American technology policy at the grassroots level. Tensley, who donated $172 to Bernie Sanders’ 2020 presidential campaign according to Federal Election Commission records, signed petitions through Protect Frederick County from Data Center Development. The Bitcoin Policy Institute characterized PSL as providing the ground game for data center opposition through rallies, petitions, public hearings, local candidates, and neighborhood organizing necessary to halt projects.
