Capital Highlights: Week of June 29 – July 3
A new University of Texas poll reveals that a majority of Texans oppose data centers in their communities, despite the state becoming a top destination for such facilities. Concerns cited include water and resource use, and the overall impact on local life. In response, Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick have made data center regulation a legislative priority for the upcoming session.
A recent poll conducted by the University of Texas' Texas Politics Project indicates that a majority of Texans are opposed to the presence of data centers in their communities. Texas has emerged as the leading destination for data center development, which provides essential infrastructure for artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency mining.
The poll found significant opposition across the political spectrum, with 43% of Republicans opposing data centers compared to 42% who support their construction. Among Democrats, opposition was even stronger, exceeding 60%. James Henson, director of the polling center, noted that objections stem from various factors, including environmental concerns regarding water and resource consumption, as well as the significant local impact these facilities have on residents' lives.
In response to this growing public sentiment, both Governor Greg Abbott and Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick have publicly declared that the regulation of data centers will be a legislative priority during the next year's session.