Oklahoma Voice: Data center backlash set to sway midterm elections
Opposition to data centers has expanded from local planning and city council meetings into a significant issue in state and federal elections. Voters in at least three dozen communities are expected to consider ballot measures that could ban data centers, with resistance coming from both Republican and Democratic voters.
Backlash against data centers has grown rapidly during the current election cycle, moving beyond local planning commissions and city councils into state and federal political contests. Candidates who previously promoted data centers as sources of economic growth have begun changing their positions as public opposition intensifies.
At least three dozen cities, counties and townships are expected to consider November ballot measures that could prohibit data center development. Analysts say the opposition is bipartisan, reflecting concerns that have spread across communities nationwide.