7 out of 10 Americans oppose data centers, new Gallup poll finds
Nationwide opposition to data center development is growing, with a new Gallup poll indicating 7 out of 10 Americans oppose them in their communities. This sentiment is influencing political actions, leading to a data center ban in Nye County, Nevada, and restrictions or freezes on new developments by governors in Texas and Pennsylvania. Water and power consumption remain significant concerns driving this public and political pushback.
A new Gallup poll reveals significant nationwide opposition to data center development, with 70% of Americans opposing their construction in their communities. This growing public sentiment is increasingly influencing political discourse and actions, particularly in states like Nevada, Texas, and Pennsylvania, as midterm elections approach.
In Southern Nevada, local concerns primarily revolve around the environmental impact of data centers, specifically their demands on water and power resources. This outcry has led Nye County to enact a county-wide ban on data center development. Meanwhile, Nevada's Attorney General Aaron Ford has announced a "Data Center Accountability Agenda," proposing a pause on tax breaks for these facilities if he is elected governor in November. Conversely, Governor Joe Lombardo has voiced support for data centers, citing their contributions to jobs, investment, and economic growth in the state.
Beyond Nevada, the article notes that Texas Governor Greg Abbott is implementing a freeze on new data centers, and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro is imposing new restrictions. The increased public pushback is compelling political candidates across the country to take clear stances on data center development, indicating its growing importance as a voter issue.