xAI
For months, xAI met privately with government officials to bring xAI's data center to Memphis,

• Secretive Law-Enforcement Collaboration: Local and national law-enforcement agencies collaborated on a project bound by nondisclosure agreements, which was completed within four months.
• Launch and Operation: Officially announced in June, the facility became operational in July and is now a major consumer of power and water in Memphis.
• Environmental Impact Concerns: XAI’s new facility is awaiting approval for 150 megawatts of capacity from the Tennessee Valley Authority, necessitating a new substation.
• Local Community Concerns: Residents and environmental groups are worried about the impact on local utilities and environmental sustainability due to the facility’s high resource demands.

California officials cite Elon Musk’s politics in rejecting SpaceX launches

• Launch Plan Rejected: The California Coastal Commission rejected a proposal by the Air Force to allow SpaceX up to 50 launches a year from Vandenberg Air Force Base.
• Political Concerns: Elon Musk's recent political rhetoric, including comments about FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agencyand the presidential election, influenced the commission's decision.
• Environmental and Public Access Issues: Concerns included potential military activity impacts, wildlife disturbance, coastal access, and lack of commitment from Space Force to follow environmental protection measures.
• Previous Agreements: Space Force had agreed to conditions like reducing sonic booms and increased wildlife monitoring, but tensions remained after August hearings where DOD did not fully commit.
• Labor and Military Exemption Concerns: Commissioners criticized SpaceX’s labor practices and questioned why launches should receive military exemptions if not carrying military payloads.
• Lawmakers’ Support: Some lawmakers argued that California should leverage commercial space industry growth, but concerns over Musk’s influence overshadowed the support.
• SpaceX’s Response: SpaceX participated via a Zoom statement in support of the launch plan but did not attend the hearing in person or provide an immediate response to requests for comment.