Data Center Policies Emerge as Key Issue in US Midterm Elections
This opinion piece argues that data centers are a critical issue in upcoming US midterm elections, with widespread public opposition due to concerns over electricity costs and environmental impact. It highlights varied policy responses from state and local governments, citing New Jersey's data center bans and a new bill, while also noting contradictory stances from politicians trying to appeal to both anti-data center voters and pro-AI corporations. The author calls for stronger political action against data center expansion.
Nicholas Gatto's opinion piece in The Daily Targum contends that data center development has become a significant issue in the upcoming US midterm elections, with widespread public opposition across the political spectrum. A March 2026 poll indicated that over 70% of Americans oppose new AI data centers in their communities, a sentiment shared by both Democrats and Republicans due to rising electricity costs and environmental degradation. Gatto argues that despite this public sentiment, legislators often expedite data center projects.
The article highlights varying policy approaches across the nation, citing New Jersey as an example with "the highest number of permanent data center bans." However, Gatto criticizes New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill (D-N.J.) for signing a bill aimed at holding data centers accountable for costs while simultaneously promoting New Jersey as a leader in AI innovation, describing it as political fence-sitting.
Looking beyond New Jersey, the piece examines the Wisconsin gubernatorial race, where both Democratic nominee Mayor David Crowley of Milwaukee and Republican nominee Rep. Tom Tiffany (R-7) are attempting to position themselves as anti-data center candidates while also appealing to corporations. Gatto contrasts these "playing-both-sides" positions with the more definitive stances of former President Donald J. Trump, who supports data centers for economic reasons, and progressive figures like New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-14) and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), who have proposed a legislative freeze on new AI data center construction and expansion, prioritizing "humanity over profit."
Gatto concludes by urging federal politicians to unequivocally oppose data center expansion, echoing the strong stance taken by some New Jersey towns, and asserts that political support should only be given to those who prioritize societal well-being over corporate interests.