A data center backlash is upending Ohio’s Senate race
Ohio residents are organizing against the rapid expansion of hyperscale data centers, with 21 ballot measures across 16 counties proposing bans or restrictions. The issue is influencing the Senate race between Republican Sen. Jon Husted and former Democratic Sen. Sherrod Brown, as voters raise concerns about electricity costs, water, environmental impacts and a lack of local input.
Data center opposition has become a major political issue in Ohio, where residents in 16 counties are preparing to vote on 21 measures involving construction bans or zoning restrictions. In Hubbard, residents are considering an outright ban after learning that the mayor signed a nondisclosure agreement with a data center company. Activists such as Jessica Baker of Conserve Ohio say communities were not given enough say over projects and associated tax incentives.
The backlash is complicating Republican Sen. Jon Husted’s campaign against former Democratic Sen. Sherrod Brown. Husted has promoted a proposed Ratepayer Protection Act intended to make data centers bear more of their electricity costs, although Democrats blocked a Senate vote and criticized the measure as inadequate. Brown and Husted have both emphasized potential jobs and investment while acknowledging concerns about higher utility bills, clean air, clean water and the need for stronger guardrails. Reporter Ali Vitali said the issue reflects broader voter anxiety about artificial intelligence and the influence of technology companies on government policy.