Political earthquake: Conservatives are turning against data centers
A new Commonwealth Poll in Virginia indicates a significant political realignment, with both conservatives and liberals increasingly opposing data centers and related tax breaks. This marks a reversal from just three years ago when there was broad bipartisan support. The shift is leading to policy discussions, including a recently adopted fee on data center electricity consumption and proposed moratoriums.
A recent Commonwealth Poll from Virginia Commonwealth University reveals a significant shift in political sentiment regarding data centers across Virginia, showing that both liberals and conservatives are increasingly turning against them. This represents a dramatic reversal from just three years ago when polls, such as one by The Washington Post and the Schar School at George Mason University, indicated wide bipartisan support for data center tax breaks.
Initially, opposition to data centers and their associated tax incentives was more pronounced among Democrats, largely due to environmental concerns related to water and energy consumption. However, the latest Commonwealth Poll demonstrates a substantial increase in conservative opposition, even in rural, job-hungry parts of the state. While earlier data showed Virginians supporting tax breaks and comfortable with data centers in their communities, recent polls show strong opposition, with comfort levels for data centers in local communities also dropping.
This shift on the right is particularly notable as it runs counter to traditional pro-business conservative instincts. The article highlights that Republicans are even showing support for what amounts to a new tax: "additional fees to offset electricity demand" for data centers, a measure proposed by Gov. Abigail Spanberger and recently enacted by the General Assembly. This policy move is strongly backed by a significant majority of Virginians, including a notable percentage of Republicans.
The political realignment has created tensions within both parties, with Democratic leaders like Gov. Abigail Spanberger needing to promote Virginia for business, while others like Beth Macy advocate for moratoriums on data center construction. On the Republican side, there's a potential disconnect between grassroots voters, who are increasingly opposing data centers, and national figures like former President Trump, who enthusiastically promote AI, which necessitates more data centers.