Trump says communities opposed to data centers want to be ‘backwards and poor’
President Trump stated that communities opposing AI data centers risk economic decline, amidst growing national opposition fueled by environmental and financial concerns. In response, local governments in East Tennessee, including Knox County, have enacted or are considering moratoriums and new regulations on data center development.
Former President Donald Trump declared on Truth Social that communities rejecting AI data centers would become "backwards and poor," asserting that embracing data centers would lead to economic success, lower taxes, and job creation. His remarks come as recent Fox News polling indicates a significant majority of Americans, including both Republicans and Democrats, oppose data center construction in their areas due to environmental and financial concerns. Analysts have highlighted that a medium-sized data center can consume vast amounts of water, equivalent to about 1,000 households annually, primarily for cooling.
Despite some major tech companies like Meta, Amazon, and Google agreeing to Trump's ratepayer protection pledge to cover increased energy costs, the issue has become a contentious political topic. Swing-state candidates from both parties are reportedly backing restrictions on data center development. Trump, while acknowledging differing views, reiterated his belief that as a mayor or governor, he would welcome data centers for their "tremendous income."
The debate has tangible local impacts, particularly in East Tennessee. The Knoxville-Knox County Planning Commission enacted a one-year moratorium on data centers in Knox County in August. Furthermore, Loudon, Blount, and Roane Counties are currently considering similar moratoriums, while the Anderson County Planning Commission has advocated for new regulatory rules concerning data centers. Trump warned that "killing the Golden Goose" of AI would only lead to self-blame, suggesting that China would welcome such a development.