Anxious about AI: Polls show Americans oppose data centers, have fears about machine learning
National polls indicate that roughly three-quarters of Americans oppose new artificial intelligence data centers in their communities. Concerns include electricity and water use, environmental effects, noise, land use, jobs, and the broader social risks of AI.
Recent national surveys from Ipsos, Pew Research Center, and the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research show widespread concern about AI and opposition to new data centers. About 72% of voters oppose new facilities in their communities, while many respondents fear AI could harm society, eliminate jobs, damage the environment, or weaken human decision-making.
Experts quoted in the article said data centers make abstract concerns about AI tangible for residents who worry about power bills, water resources, neighborhood impacts, and government oversight. More than 360 U.S. jurisdictions have reportedly adopted pauses, restrictions, or bans on data center development, while industry representatives argue that new facilities are needed for AI growth and could provide jobs and community benefits.