Join the Bitcoin Policy Institute and Young Voices at PubKey DC for an evening of discussion and debate on the future of data centers, energy policy, and economic growth.
Data centers are quickly becoming the backbone of the modern economy.
As AI drives a surge in demand for computing power, the United States faces a critical question: can it build the energy and infrastructure needed to support continued innovation — or will policy constraints slow progress?
Critics argue that data centers are placing a growing strain on energy systems while benefiting from tax advantages and preferential treatment — calling for greater intervention, including proposals to tax their expansion to fund public priorities.
Others counter that these concerns are often overstated. Data centers are essential infrastructure for a modern economy, driving innovation, supporting global services, and helping expand energy capacity when markets are allowed to respond.
The evening will begin with drinks, food, and informal networking, followed by brief opening remarks and a live, moderated debate between:
- Christian Britschgi, Reporter at Reason Magazine, arguing that data centers are vital, low-impact infrastructure that should be allowed to scale with fewer barriers
- Mark Moran, U.S. Senate candidate in Virginia, advocating for taxing data center expansion to address its broader economic and social costs
Moderated by Sam Raus, David Boaz Resident Writing Fellow at Young Voices.
The conversation will be followed by additional time for drinks, food, and continued discussion.
Is the AI infrastructure boom the foundation of a more abundant future — or a system that requires greater constraint?
Schedule – May 12, 2026
5:30 PM — Doors Open
Drinks, food, and informal networking
6:30 PM — Program Begins
Opening remarks from the Bitcoin Policy Institute
6:35 PM — Moderated Debate
A 30-minute discussion on data centers, energy, and AI infrastructure
Featuring Christian Britschgi and Mark Moran
Moderated by Sam Raus, Young Voices
~7:05 PM — Networking Continues
Return to drinks, food, and conversation
8:00 PM — Event Concludes
The Bitcoin Policy Institute is a 501(c)3 non-profit working to prepare America for the rise of Bitcoin. You can support BPI’s mission here: https://btcpolicy.org/donate
Young Voices is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit talent agency that identifies and elevates the next generation of policy communicators. You can support Young Voices’ mission here: https://www.joinyv.org/donate
Getting There:
🔵🟠⚪ Federal Triangle + 10 min walk
🟢🟡 Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter + 2 min walk
🔴 Judiciary Square or Metro Center + 8 min walk
There is street parking and several nearby paid garage
🗓 Tuesday, May 12, 2026
🕔 Time: 5:30 PM — 8:00 PM EDT
📍 Pubkey DC
410 7th St NW · Washington, DC
✨ The Bitcoin District Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit working to build a grassroots Bitcoin circular economy in Washington, DC through education, business onboarding, and community outreach programs. If you’d like to get involved or support the Initiative, visit https://bitcoindistrictinitiative.org.