Data center backlash erupts as AI boom collides with midterm elections
A national backlash against data centers is rapidly becoming a major issue in midterm elections, with public sentiment turning against their development due to concerns over electricity, water use, and noise. Politicians are responding by changing their stances and in some cases imposing new restrictions, as seen with Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro's recent executive order.
The massive data centers powering the artificial intelligence boom have become a significant political issue ahead of the midterm elections, as voter opposition to these facilities surges. A new Heatmap Pro poll indicates that 75% of Americans now oppose data centers near their homes, a substantial increase from 42% a year ago. This shift in public sentiment stems from growing concerns about electricity costs, water consumption, land use, and noise, prompting politicians across the country to re-evaluate their positions.
In Pennsylvania, Governor Josh Shapiro, who previously announced major data center projects, recently signed an executive order imposing new restrictions and requirements on data center development, acknowledging residents' concerns. His Republican opponent, Stacy Garrity, is criticizing Shapiro for his earlier support of the industry.
A similar political dynamic is unfolding in Wisconsin's gubernatorial race, where Republican nominee Tom Tiffany, once supportive of data center development, is now campaigning against it. He is running ads labeling his Democratic opponent, David Crowley, as "Data Center David Crowley." Crowley has responded by advocating for local control, asserting that communities should not be compelled to accept data centers they do not want.
The issue is also prominent in Ohio's Senate race, where former Democratic Senator Sherrod Brown is challenging Republican Senator Jon Husted over his role in attracting data centers to the state. Other candidates, such as Florida Republican Byron Donalds, are proposing solutions that support data centers while addressing community concerns, such as requiring them to supply their own power and water and locate away from residential areas. President Trump, however, maintains his support for data centers, emphasizing their importance for national AI competitiveness, jobs, investment, and tax revenue.