Donald Trump says he wants America to lead the world in artificial intelligence. He’s embraced Silicon Valley’s biggest players, promised an innovation boom and painted AI as a pillar of U.S. strength.

But here’s the problem: Leadership in AI isn’t just about algorithms and chips. It’s about power — literal, electric power. And on that front, Trump’s policies don’t match his rhetoric.

The reality is simple. AI runs on electricity. Massive data centers humming 24/7 already account for nearly 5% of America’s power demand . Within five years, that number could double. Analysts at the International Energy Agency estimate that by 2030, global electricity demand from data centers will rival the entire consumption of Japan . America alone is projected to drive almost half of that growth.

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