Fox News has publicly apologized for broadcasting unsubstantiated accusations made by businessman and television personality Kevin O'Leary, who alleged that opponents of his proposed data center project in Utah are tied to China. The network's statement, read by anchors across multiple shows, acknowledged that O'Leary has since corrected the record, stating he has "no evidence" that the Alliance for a Better Utah, Josh Kantor, or Taylor Knuth are funded by China or the Chinese Communist Party.
"Kevin O'Leary appeared as a guest on the show on May 24 and discussed the ongoing controversy surrounding his planned data center project in Utah," the statement read. "He made certain claims relating to the opponents of his project. Mr. O'Leary has now corrected the record and explained he has 'no evidence' that the Alliance for a Better Utah, Josh Kantor or Taylor Knuth are funded by China or the Chinese Communist Party."
Fox News Media further stated it is "likewise aware of no evidence that they are funded by, or acting in the direction of, or in coordination with Chinese interests in opposing Mr. O'Leary's project." The network concluded with a clear apology: "Fox News Media also apologizes for the error."
The apology, first reported by Mediaite, stems from O'Leary's appearance on "Mornings with Maria Bartiromo" last month, where he described China as an "adversary" that wants "us to stop building our electrical grid." O'Leary, a vocal supporter of President Trump, is spearheading a controversial 40,000-acre artificial intelligence data center campus in Utah, which has drawn significant pushback from local residents over its scale and environmental impact.
In a social media post last week, O'Leary clarified his earlier statements: "Recently I appeared on various news programs and would like to clarify that I have no evidence that Alliance for a Better Utah, Elevate Strategies, Gabrielle Finlayson, Taylor Knuth or Josh Kanter are funded by China or the Chinese Communist Party."
The incident underscores ongoing tensions around large-scale data center projects, which have become a flashpoint in both local and national politics. As artificial intelligence drives demand for massive computing infrastructure, similar projects face scrutiny over energy consumption, land use, and potential foreign influence.
Meanwhile, some lawmakers are pushing for greater oversight. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has advocated for antitrust action and a moratorium on AI data centers, citing price surges and environmental concerns. The debate highlights the complex intersection of technology, policy, and national security that surrounds these developments.
O'Leary's project in Utah remains a subject of intense debate, with opponents raising valid concerns about its footprint and sustainability. The apology from Fox News serves as a reminder of the importance of factual accuracy in reporting on politically charged issues, particularly when unsubstantiated claims can inflame tensions and mislead the public.
