OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Elon Musk are locked in a heated debate on X over the recently announced Stargate project, an ambitious plan to develop AI infrastructure across the United States.
Altman Defends Stargate Amid Musk’s Criticism
Altman dismissed Musk’s skepticism about Stargate’s funding, calling his criticism “false” and inviting him to visit the project’s first construction site. The initiative, backed by SoftBank and the Middle Eastern AI fund MGX, aims to raise $500 billion to build advanced data centers powering OpenAI’s AI systems.
Musk had previously questioned the project’s financial viability, claiming SoftBank had secured “well under $10 billion”—far short of the ambitious funding target.
Altman Urges Musk to Prioritize U.S. Interests
In a pointed response, Altman framed Stargate as “great for the country”, subtly suggesting that Musk’s opposition may stem from conflicts with his own business interests, including Tesla, SpaceX, and xAI.
Altman also invoked Musk’s role in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a federal task force aimed at reducing government spending, urging him to put national priorities ahead of corporate concerns. The DOGE commission, recently endorsed by former President Donald Trump, has sparked controversy and faces legal challenges.
AI Race Heats Up Between OpenAI and xAI
The rivalry between OpenAI and Musk’s xAI is escalating as both companies compete for resources to build next-generation AI technology. Reports indicate xAI has already invested $12 billion in a data center in Memphis, Tennessee, with billions more needed for future upgrades.
As tensions mount, the battle between two of the most influential figures in AI signals deeper conflicts over the future of artificial intelligence, national interests, and corporate dominance in the industry.
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