A recent Gallup poll shows 71% of Americans oppose building AI data centers in their local areas, with opposition spanning political lines. The findings come as local and state officials face growing backlash against data center expansions amid concerns over infrastructure strain, environmental impact, and public health risks.
Voters reject AI data centers in primary elections
Primary election results in multiple states indicate that candidates who supported AI data center developments faced electoral consequences. In Utah, state Senate President J. Stuart Adams lost his Republican primary after approving a data center project backed by investor Kevin O’Leary. Former Box Elder County Commissioner Lee Perry also attributed his primary loss to his support for the project, stating in a local interview that the issue "cost me the election."
Opposition spans political spectrum
The Gallup poll, conducted this year, found that 7 in 10 Americans oppose constructing data centers for artificial intelligence in their local area, including 48% who are strongly opposed. While surveys by Gallup and Pew Research Center suggest Democrats account for a majority of opposition, Republicans are nearly as likely to oppose such projects. The issue has become increasingly bipartisan, with Republican-led states witnessing some of the most vocal resistance.
Key concerns driving opposition
Critics cite several primary grievances:
Infrastructure strain and costs
- Data centers demand massive amounts of electricity, water, and grid capacity, often straining local resources.
- Communities report rising utility costs and concerns over grid reliability as projects expand.
- Projects frequently proceed with limited public disclosure, with companies citing nondisclosure agreements that restrict officials from sharing details about water use, energy demand, or infrastructure costs.
Environmental and health impacts
- In Mississippi, unpermitted gas turbines powering xAI’s Colossus 2 data center have been linked to smog-forming pollution, according to early analyses.
- In Memphis, 35 temporary gas turbines operating without permits have exacerbated air quality issues in an area already burdened by long-term pollution, with residents reporting worsening asthma and persistent odors.
- Environmental advocates warn that the rapid expansion of data centers, accelerated by federal and state policies, is outpacing regulatory oversight.
Policy responses and political divisions
President Donald Trump’s July 2025 executive order aimed to expedite AI data center construction by easing federal regulatory burdens. The order has drawn criticism from opponents who argue it prioritizes corporate interests over community concerns. Meanwhile, some Republican officials are beginning to acknowledge voter opposition, even as others face electoral repercussions for supporting such projects.
Scale of development and regulatory gaps
Estimates indicate over 1,500 AI data centers are in development, with 67% located outside urban areas. The rapid rollout has raised questions about the adequacy of existing regulations, particularly regarding environmental reviews, public health assessments, and community input processes.
Community resistance tactics
Opponents have organized through public meetings, petitions, protests, and legal challenges to block new developments. In some cases, local governments have imposed moratoriums or additional review processes to address concerns.
Broader implications
The debate reflects broader tensions over the balance between technological advancement and local governance. As data centers proliferate, policymakers and communities are grappling with how to manage their impacts while ensuring equitable access to infrastructure benefits.