Stockton Poll: Most N.J. Voters Would Support Local Data Center Bans

A recent poll conducted by the William J. Hughes Center for Public Policy at Stockton University indicates that 56% of New Jersey voters favor local bans on data centers. This strong sentiment is largely driven by public apprehension regarding the growth of artificial intelligence infrastructure and its potential impact on employment, with 74% of voters believing AI will eliminate more jobs than it creates. VVoters expressed significant concerns over data centers' environmental footprint, including energy and water consumption, and their contribution to rising electricity costs. Despite the Murphy administration's past initiatives to attract data center development through tax incentives, 72% of voters now oppose such measures. In response to growing public pushback, Pemberton Township became the first municipality in New Jersey to enact a local ban on data center construction in February, with other towns reportedly following suit. Over 80% of voters support requiring data centers to implement on-site power generation and adhere to stricter environmental and energy efficiency standards. Alyssa Maurice, assistant director of the Hughes Center, highlighted the challenge facing policymakers as they strive to balance economic growth associated with AI infrastructure against increasing public concerns about costs, environmental sustainability, and local community impact. The poll, which surveyed 642 registered voters from April 21-27, underscores the burgeoning policy debate surrounding appropriate zoning, energy sourcing, and financing for grid upgrades in the state.