Oregonians are extremely skeptical of data centers, new polling suggests
New polling reveals widespread skepticism among Oregon voters regarding data centers, with strong support for a temporary construction ban and opposition to tax breaks for these facilities. This public sentiment is now influencing state policymakers as they review and consider new regulations for data center development across Oregon. Some lawmakers are advocating for a three-year moratorium.
Oregon voters overwhelmingly oppose tax breaks for data centers and support a temporary ban on new facilities, according to a recent poll by Portland-based DHM Research. The poll, which surveyed 600 registered Oregon voters, found 71% have negative feelings about data centers and 66% support a moratorium on new AI data center construction. This skepticism spans across political parties and regions, with even a majority of Republican voters supporting such a ban and strong opposition to tax incentives.
The findings come as Oregon policymakers, including an advisory committee convened by Gov. Tina Kotek, are actively reviewing state regulations for data centers amidst growing public backlash over their high power consumption, low employment numbers, and reliance on tax breaks. Some progressive state lawmakers, including Rep. Lesly Munoz, D-Woodburn, are advocating for a three-year moratorium on large-scale data centers and plan to introduce a bill in the 2027 legislative session, arguing the state should prioritize other sectors. While an outright ban appears to be off the table for Gov. Kotek's committee, their mandate is to develop policies for responsible development, considering environmental and fiscal stewardship.