How AI data center outrage is becoming a bipartisan rallying cry in the midterm elections
Opposition to AI data centers is becoming a bipartisan issue in the midterm elections, fueled by concerns over water usage, electricity consumption, and potential job loss. Politicians in states like Florida, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Ohio are addressing public outcry through proposed legislation, executive orders, and campaign platforms. Companies like Microsoft and OpenAI are responding with pledges to be responsible neighbors.
Public outrage over AI data centers is escalating across the United States, transforming into a bipartisan rallying cry ahead of the midterm elections. This sentiment is primarily driven by concerns over substantial water and electricity usage, as highlighted by an advertising campaign from Liquid Death and Garage Beer, and fears of job displacement due to automation.
State and federal lawmakers are taking notice, with various legislative and executive actions emerging. In Florida, Representative Byron Donalds introduced the Protecting Rate Payers Act, aiming to shift data center investment costs from taxpayers to private developers. Meanwhile, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, a potential 2028 presidential candidate, signed an executive order imposing stringent standards on data center development, mandating local support, self-generated power, and protection of water and air quality. His Republican opponent, State Treasurer Stacy Gity, has called for a moratorium on future development. In Texas, Governor Greg Abbott is also working to implement new standards amid criticism from Democratic challenger Gina Inoza.
This issue has even impacted the Ohio Senate race, where the National Republican Senatorial Committee notes that data centers have become a contentious point. Democratic candidate Sherrod Brown has centered his campaign on opposition to data centers, challenging incumbent Republican John Houston. Companies like Microsoft and OpenAI are responding to the souring public opinion by pledging to be good neighbors, paying their own way on energy and water, and investing in local jobs, as outlined in recent blog posts and commitments.