Not in my backyard: Most Americans oppose AI data centers, Gallup finds

A recent Gallup poll reveals significant public opposition to the construction of artificial intelligence data centers in local communities across the United States. Conducted from March 2-18, the survey found that 71% of Americans oppose such developments, with 48% strongly opposed, while only 26% are in favor. This marks the first time Gallup has measured public opinion on data center construction, an issue that has already generated considerable community resistance nationwide. Concerns about the environmental impact of AI data centers are high, with 46% of Americans expressing a "great deal" of worry. Opponents frequently cite the intensive use of resources, including water consumption and energy usage, as well as pollution (noise, air, and water impacts). Quality-of-life concerns such as increased traffic and population growth, alongside potential economic downsides like higher utility bills and rising living costs, also contribute to opposition. Conversely, supporters of data centers largely highlight economic advantages, with 55% specifically mentioning job creation. Other cited benefits include increased tax revenue, infrastructure development, and broader economic gains. The poll's findings suggest a considerable challenge for the expansion of AI infrastructure, as strong public resistance could lead to grassroots pushback, legal hurdles, and data center development becoming a prominent issue in local and state elections. The article briefly references an ongoing $16 billion data center project in Saline, Michigan, developed by Related Digital for Oracle and OpenAI, as an example facing local opposition due to loss of farmland and resource impact concerns.