Rising Concerns About Data Centers in U.S. Communities

A growing number of Americans express strong opposition to the construction of data centers in their neighborhoods. According to a recent poll conducted by Heatmap Pro and Embold Research, three out of four Americans reject local data centers. This sentiment crosses political lines, with two-thirds of Republicans, 80% of independents, and 83% of Democrats opposing such projects.

Regardless of demographic divides, whether by age, gender, or income, the opposition remains consistent. Last year, the public opinion was nearly split, but this year, opposition soared more than 62 percentage points, with over 70% in every region advocating for a national moratorium on data centers.

Historically, political responses lag behind public opinion. However, weakened political institutions and opportunistic politicians have quickly recognized this trend. As a result, $130 billion worth of projects faced delays or cancellations in early 2023. The Information reported that 500 jurisdictions implemented bans or moratoriums on local projects, including 150 in July alone. In places like Maryland, regulations affect three-quarters of the state’s residents, while New York enacted the first statewide pause.

This phenomenon is not limited to traditionally Democratic areas. In Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott declared a moratorium on data centers until an audit of their impact on the electric grid is completed, prioritizing residents’ safety and quality of life over unchecked development. A shift in tone from his previous praise of Texas as an AI hub reflects the growing local concerns.

Similarly, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro reversed his earlier support, now instituting new regulations for data center projects. He criticized these companies as ‘predatory,’ vowing not to let the state be overrun or pressured into unfavorable terms.