Virginia Poll Reveals Strong Opposition to Data Center Tax Exemptions and Support for Electricity Offsets
A new statewide poll from Virginia Commonwealth University reveals strong opposition among Virginians to sales tax exemptions for data centers, with 72% of registered voters against such incentives. The poll also found 81% support for requiring data centers to offset their electricity demands. These findings reflect public desire for balanced economic growth and fiscal responsibility regarding data center development.
The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University released its Summer 2026 Commonwealth Poll, highlighting significant public sentiment regarding data centers and statewide policy. The poll, which surveyed 804 registered voters across Virginia from June 22 to July 6, 2026, found that 47% of respondents believe the commonwealth is headed in the wrong direction, with inflation and cost of living cited as the top issue.
A key finding specific to data centers indicates that 72% of registered voters oppose granting sales tax exemptions as an incentive for their development in Virginia. Furthermore, a substantial 81% support requiring data centers to pay additional fees to offset the increased demands they place on the state's electric infrastructure. L. Douglas Wilder, a distinguished professor at the Wilder School and former Virginia governor, stated that these results demonstrate the public's expectation for economic growth to be balanced with fiscal responsibility and careful management of taxpayer funds.
The poll also noted that data centers had been a major point of contention in the state's recent budget standoff between the House of Delegates and Senate, and three-quarters of voters were aware of discussions surrounding them. Additionally, the survey revealed that 47% of registered voters disapprove of Gov. Abigail Spanberger's job performance, an uncommon assessment for a new administration so early in its tenure. Other issues covered included support for paid sick leave, Virginia's participation in the RGGI climate program, and concerns over college affordability.