Polling shows Texans opposition towards data centers, as politicians reverse course
Recent polling from The Texas Politics Project at UT Austin indicates strong opposition among Texans, particularly in rural and suburban areas, to data center construction in their communities. This public sentiment is causing politicians, including Governor Abbott, to reconsider their previous support for data center development and adopt a more cautious approach.
A recent poll conducted by The Texas Politics Project at UT Austin reveals that most Texans oppose the construction of data centers in their communities, with 56% expressing opposition and only 29% in support. James Henson, from The Texas Politics Project, noted that opposition is strongest in rural and suburban areas where many recent and proposed data center projects are located.
This shift in public opinion appears to be influencing politicians in Texas. Governor Abbott, who previously showed unfettered support for AI development and data centers, is now adopting a more measured approach, described by Henson as "tapping the brakes." Former Republican activist Suzanne Bellsnyder agrees, attributing this shift to politicians responding to public opinion during an election year.
In response to the growing opposition and political reevaluation, advocacy groups like Texas Connects, partnered with the Data Center Coalition, are launching public education campaigns. Josh Levi, President and CEO of the Data Center Coalition, stated that these advertisements aim to inform Texans about the economic benefits data centers provide, including job creation, GDP contributions, and tax revenue for local services, without endorsing political candidates.