Data Center Backlash Shapes Ohio Politics Ahead of Midterm Elections
Ohio has become a major battleground over data center development, with 21 ballot measures across 16 counties seeking bans or zoning restrictions. Residents and candidates are debating the economic benefits of construction and jobs against concerns about electricity costs, local resources, clean air, water and community character.
MS NOW correspondent Ali Vitali reports that data center development has emerged as a significant political issue in Ohio, where 21 ballot measures across 16 counties would either restrict or halt new projects. Residents such as Jessica Baker, who joined the grassroots group Conserve Ohio, say communities were not given a meaningful choice before hyperscale facilities were proposed or built near their homes.
The issue is complicating the reelection politics of Republican Sen. Jon Husted and shaping the positions of Husted and former Sen. Sherrod Brown. Husted has promoted legislation intended to make data centers bear their own electricity costs, but Democrats blocked a Senate vote and criticized the measure as inadequate. Supporters point to billions in investment and construction jobs, while opponents cite higher electric bills, pressure on local resources, environmental concerns and broader anxiety about artificial intelligence. Vitali says Ohio is one of eight states where voters may decide whether to limit or support data center construction.