Data centers, once hailed as economic assets, are now facing significant opposition from communities across the U.S. In upcoming elections, over 36 locales will vote on potential bans against these facilities. This growing backlash is prevalent among both Republican and Democratic voters, revealing a rare bipartisan consensus on the issue.
“The people are speaking, and they’re speaking in one voice in opposition to this infrastructure,” said Tatishe Nteta, provost professor of political science at UMass Amherst. “It is not something that people desire in any shape, form or fashion. This potentially could be the issue that gives you the status of a former member of a city council or a former member of Congress.”
According to a poll by UMass Amherst, only 11% of Americans support AI data centers in their communities, with 65% opposing them. This sentiment is driven by concerns over increased energy costs, pollution, and the transformation of open spaces into industrial sites.
Local activists criticize the rapid construction of data centers, which they argue strains the electrical grid and uses excessive water. Additionally, they object to private natural gas plants that power these centers, raising emissions and public health worries. The AI technologies these centers support are also feared to disrupt economies and mental health.
Anger at both parties
Activists have criticized elected officials for offering tax incentives to lure data centers, accusing them of secretive negotiations with tech giants. “The politicians are chasing the grassroots, they aren’t leading on the issue,” said Anthony Elmo from Good Jobs First. Politicians who previously supported data centers are now distancing themselves due to political pressures.
In response, tech companies argue AI is crucial for economic competitiveness, creating construction jobs and boosting property tax revenue. Leading the Future, a tech-backed Super PAC, supports candidates in favor of AI, claiming that responsibly built data centers can generate significant revenue.
An investigation revealed that Leading the Future used AI bots for promotional stories, while another investigation found it paid influencers to emphasize competition from Chinese AI.
‘People coming together’
The U.S. currently sees data centers consuming 49 gigawatts of electricity, with 350 gigawatts in new projects planned. Ohio, a key state in this backlash, offers tax exemptions to attract data centers, resulting in a construction boom. However, local opposition has led to 21 ballot measures in Ohio alone, aiming to restrict or regulate data centers.
Communities like Grove City and Ottawa are uniting across political lines to block development. Michael Lewis of Ottawa United noted the lack of public engagement in project negotiations, which fueled opposition. Despite political differences, both Republican and Democratic leaders are joining forces against data center expansions.
Issue in statewide races
Data centers have become pivotal in statewide elections. Ohio’s Republican U.S. Sen. Jon Husted faces criticism for supporting tax breaks for data centers, while his Democratic challenger highlights his association with them. In Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott, once a strong advocate, has halted new permits amid electoral pressure.
Vlasto of the pro-data center Super PAC believes that communities should decide on data center developments, arguing that outright bans are excessive. Meanwhile, Elmo from Good Jobs First notes the rapid rise of this issue, pointing out the industry’s unexpected alignment with calls for responsible development.
