As Trump pushes for data centers, voters in key midterm races say they don't want them
A national poll reveals widespread voter opposition to data center construction, with a significant majority strongly opposing new AI data centers in their local areas. This sentiment is impacting midterm election races and leading to local actions like a moratorium in Buchanan County, Iowa, as well as proposed and enacted regulations in other states.
A recent NBC News Decision Desk Poll, conducted from August 20 to September 1, found that 69% of respondents oppose the construction of AI data centers in their local areas, with 45% strongly opposing the idea. This widespread voter opposition is becoming a significant issue in upcoming midterm elections, with politicians taking varying stances.
In Buchanan County, Iowa, Republican county supervisor Dawn Vogel spearheaded a moratorium that temporarily bans data centers, citing concerns over land and natural resource use, particularly water. This local action reflects a broader "populist coalition" fighting data center proliferation, despite arguments from figures like former President Donald Trump, who advocates for data centers as economic drivers.
Democrats and independents show stronger opposition, but even a majority of Republican voters (57%) are against data centers in their communities. The debate extends to state-level policy, with Ohio's Rep. Marcy Kaptur using a rival's past vote for data center tax breaks against him, and Sen. Jon Husted proposing legislation to make data centers cover increased utility costs. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro recently signed new data center regulations, indicating a shifting political landscape where initial enthusiasm for economic benefits is now balanced with community and environmental concerns.