Wisconsin Voters Show Strong Opposition to Data Centers in Recent Poll
A recent Marquette University Law School Poll indicates a significant drop in public support for data centers in Wisconsin, with 76% of registered voters believing their costs outweigh the benefits. This sentiment has been growing across all political affiliations, leading politicians to echo negative talking points. Despite the strong opposition, data centers remain a low-priority issue for most voters compared to inflation and other concerns.
A recent Marquette University Law School Poll reveals a stark decline in public support for data center development across Wisconsin. The July survey, which polled 838 registered Wisconsin voters, found that 76% believe the costs associated with data centers outweigh their benefits, a significant increase from 55% in October 2025. This growing negative sentiment is influencing politicians from both parties to adopt critical stances on data center projects.
The shift in public opinion is evident across various demographic groups. Among Republicans, the percentage expressing concerns about data center costs rose from 53% in October 2025 to 67% in the latest poll. Democrats also showed increased opposition, with 88% now believing costs are greater than benefits, up from 56%. Independents mirrored this trend, with 71% now citing greater costs.
Despite the clear opposition, the poll indicates that data centers are not a top-tier issue for most Wisconsin voters. Only 5% of respondents identified data centers as their most important concern, with inflation and the cost of living dominating at 42%. Other pressing issues included illegal immigration (13%) and health insurance (9%). The poll's margin of error was plus or minus 4.5 percentage points.