UMBC Poll Finds Strong Maryland Opposition to Data Centers Amid Economic Concerns
A UMBC poll found that 81% of Maryland voters rate the state’s economy as poor or fair, with everyday costs and utility bills shaping their views. Nearly three-fourths opposed data centers both in their own communities and anywhere in Maryland, citing concerns about water and air pollution and limited perceived economic benefits.
A poll by the University of Maryland, Baltimore County’s Institute of Politics found widespread economic pessimism among Maryland voters, with 81% rating conditions as poor or fair and only 12% expecting improvement within a year. Institute director Mileah Kromer said voters focus more on grocery prices, household finances, housing and utility bills than on stock-market performance.
The survey also found strong opposition to data centers, with nearly three-fourths of respondents rejecting facilities in their own communities or elsewhere in Maryland. Kromer said arguments about tax revenue and jobs were not resonating because of concerns about potential water and air pollution and community impacts. The results come as St. Mary’s County officials said no data center is planned there, while Charles County Commissioner BJ Bowling shifted his focus from a proposed ban to power-supply concerns after saying the ban lacked sufficient support.