Poll: Majority of voters oppose data center construction anywhere in Maryland -
A University of Maryland, Baltimore County poll found that nearly 80% of likely Maryland voters oppose data center construction both statewide and near their communities. Voters expressed concerns about impacts on utility costs, quality of life, water and air quality, while remaining skeptical that data centers would significantly benefit the economy, tax revenue or jobs.
A poll of 776 likely Maryland voters conducted by the Institute of Politics at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County found broad opposition to data center construction. Nearly eight in 10 respondents opposed data centers being built anywhere in Maryland, as well as projects located near their own communities. The survey had a margin of error of plus or minus 3.5 percentage points.
Respondents said data centers would negatively affect household utility costs, quality of life, and water and air quality. Although supporters cite economic development, tax revenue and job creation, voters were generally skeptical of those benefits. The poll also found that only 23% viewed artificial intelligence positively, while the article separately reported that Gov. Wes Moore's job approval remained largely unchanged at 49%.