Biden Highlights Microsoft's $3.3 Billion Data Center at Former Foxconn Site Backed by Trump
President Joe Biden is set to visit Wisconsin to unveil Microsoft's plans to construct a $3.3 billion state-of-the-art data center, a move expected to generate thousands of jobs, according to the White House. The facility, located in Racine County, southeastern Wisconsin, will occupy the same site where Foxconn, the Taiwan-based electronics manufacturer, had previously intended to build a $10 billion factory, a project once hailed by former President Donald Trump. Microsoft's investment is anticipated to create approximately 2,300 union construction jobs and around 2,000 permanent positions over time, marking a significant boost to the local economy. The White House noted that Racine has seen an increase of nearly 4,000 jobs since Biden assumed office, contrasting with the loss of approximately 1,000 manufacturing jobs during the Trump administration. In addition to job creation, Microsoft will collaborate with Gateway Technical College to train 1,000 individuals for roles within the data center and other related fields by 2030. Furthermore, the company aims to provide training to 1,000 business leaders to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into their operations, signaling a commitment to fostering technological innovation and workforce development. The announcement underscores Biden's broader strategy to bolster support in key battleground states, including Wisconsin, ahead of the upcoming presidential election in November. Biden plans to engage with volunteers from Racine's Black community during his visit, aiming to strengthen ties with crucial voter demographics. The president's campaign is also launching a substantial advertising campaign, with a particular focus on reaching Black, Latino, and Asian voters, highlighting key policy differences between Biden and Trump. While Trump's campaign representatives were unavailable for immediate comment, the former president's involvement in the initial Foxconn project reflects the political significance of economic development initiatives in pivotal states. Biden's outreach efforts include leveraging mobile phone apps to facilitate voter engagement and expanding campaign operations to enhance community outreach, underscoring the importance of grassroots mobilization in electoral strategy.