Voters across the political spectrum are opposing local data center construction, creating a divide with President Trump's support for the industry.

A growing number of voters and local officials are opposing the construction of data centers in their communities, citing concerns over utility costs and resource consumption. This grassroots resistance spans the political spectrum and is emerging as a factor in key midterm election races. The movement stands in direct contrast to President Donald Trump, who has publicly advocated for data center expansion as a means of economic growth.

Public Opposition and Political Divide

An NBC News Decision Desk poll conducted between August 20 and September 1 found that 69% of respondents oppose the construction of AI data centers in their local areas. While opposition is highest among Democrats at 81% and independents at 71%, a majority of Republican voters, 57%, also oppose the projects. In Buchanan County, Iowa, Republican supervisor Dawn Vogel voted for a temporary moratorium on data centers, arguing that the facilities threaten local water and natural resources.

Economic and Labor Perspectives

Proponents, including labor unions and some politicians, argue that data centers provide high-paying jobs and tax revenue. Some workers report earning up to $5,000 per week in union roles related to these facilities. However, residents in swing districts expressed concerns that these projects drive up utility costs and strain local infrastructure, such as power grids and water supplies. Some politicians, including Senator Jon Husted of Ohio and Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, have shifted toward supporting stricter regulations on data center operations.