News ClipThe Guardian·Saline, Washtenaw County, MI·1/14/2026
There is widespread opposition across the political spectrum to new data center developments in the US, but little political action or opposition from both Democrats and Republicans. This is due to a confluence of powerful forces - including big tech, the fossil fuel industry, and utility companies - pushing for data centers, as well as apathy or indifference from many lawmakers who are not yet educated on the full impact of data centers on local communities.
Inaction at the federal and state level has pushed battles over data centers to the local level, with grassroots opposition facing off against the interests of tech companies and their political allies. Some lawmakers, like Senator Bernie Sanders and Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib, have called for data center moratoriums, while others have pushed for stricter regulations. However, the overall political response has been scattered and does not match the scale of the issue.
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Gov: Michigan Board of Supervisors, Virginia DEQ, Florida Governor's Office, Virginia Governor's Office
The development of data centers in the United States has faced little political opposition, despite widespread public disapproval. Residents in Michigan have rallied against new data centers, but state legislators have been reluctant to act, citing a "lack of political courage." The issue has been dubbed "the great unifier," as it brings together people across the political spectrum who are concerned about the centers' impact on energy bills, water sources, and local communities. However, national Republican and Democratic leadership are courting financial support from big tech companies, which are allied with the fossil fuel industry, utility companies, and the AFL-CIO in supporting data center development. While some legislators, such as Senators Bernie Sanders and Rashida Tlaib, have called for a moratorium on new data centers, the response has been scattered, as many lawmakers lack understanding of the issue. Advocates are working to educate lawmakers and connect local grassroots opposition to influence policymakers, but they face the challenge of money in politics, with tech oligarchs spending heavily to sway both parties.
