Americans United Against Data Centers

The opposition to data centers in America is seeing a significant rise. A recent poll by Heatmap Pro and Embold Research shows that three out of four Americans oppose data center construction in their communities. This includes two-thirds of Republicans, with the party cautioning that support for these centers could harm their prospects in key Senate races. The resistance spans across the political spectrum, with nearly 80% of independents and 83% of Democrats against these projects.

When the population is divided by age, gender, income, or urban-rural lines, the trend of opposition remains consistent. Last year, public opinion was almost split on data centers, but there has been a dramatic shift. Net approval swung by 62 percentage points, with opposition exceeding 70% nationwide, and over half of Americans support a national halt on these projects.

Traditionally, political adaptation to public sentiment took time, but weaker political institutions today allow entrepreneurial politicians to quickly leverage anti-establishment sentiments. In the first quarter alone, $130 billion in projects were delayed or canceled. The Information reports that 500 areas have enacted bans or moratoriums, with 150 local bans introduced in July. Maryland’s local laws now cover three-quarters of its population, and New York has set a state-level pause.

This resistance is not limited to Democrat-led regions. Texas, known for its relaxed construction policies, saw Gov. Greg Abbott implement a moratorium, halting approvals until an audit is conducted on data center connections to the state’s electric grid. Abbott emphasized the importance of Texans’ safety and quality of life, distancing his stance from the state’s business-friendly image.

Meanwhile, in Pennsylvania, Gov. Josh Shapiro, who once promoted rapid data center expansion, issued an executive order for stricter regulation. He labeled the companies behind these structures as “predatory” and committed to resist any pressure from them.