A growing number of Republican candidates in the 2026 midterm elections are distancing themselves from President Donald Trump’s aggressive push for AI data center construction, citing rising public opposition. Seventy percent of Americans oppose building data centers in their communities, according to a recent Fox News poll, while only 30% support the idea. Among Republicans, support drops to 40%, and among MAGA-aligned Republicans, it falls further to 46%.
Former Rep. Mike Rogers, the GOP Senate nominee in Michigan, has reversed his previous stance, now advocating for a one-year moratorium on data center construction. Rogers cited concerns over rising electricity costs, energy and water consumption, and pay-to-play schemes as key reasons for the shift. His proposal includes stronger guardrails to protect community control and prevent utility price hikes.
In Pennsylvania, Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) publicly aligned with Trump’s pro-data center stance, arguing that opposition is driven by fear of Chinese AI dominance rather than economic or environmental concerns. Fetterman stated that AI is essential for U.S. leadership and dismissed polling opposition as politically motivated. He emphasized Pennsylvania’s abundant energy, water, and land resources, framing data centers as a strategic economic opportunity.
Despite the backlash, data center construction spending surged by 57% in July 2026 compared to the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. However, 75% of registered voters disapprove of data centers in their communities, per a Heatmap survey. Rising energy costs and local opposition are beginning to slow expansion, though industry analysts note that construction costs represent only 20% of total data center expenses.
President Trump has doubled down on his support, arguing that opposing data centers will leave communities "backwards and poor." In a Truth Social post, he claimed that data centers bring "far lower taxes and jobs all over the place," and warned that resistance would be self-defeating. Trump acknowledged an "image problem" for the industry but maintained that the economic benefits outweigh concerns.
The divide extends beyond partisan lines, with Americans expressing mixed views on AI itself. While more than half of Americans used an AI chatbot in July, according to Morning Consult, 70% oppose hosting the infrastructure that powers it in their own communities. This disconnect has become a central political challenge for both parties as midterm races intensify.
Energy and Water Concerns Drive Opposition
Opponents of data centers highlight their massive energy consumption, with some estimates suggesting they could account for up to 10% of U.S. electricity demand by 2030. Environmental groups and local officials have raised alarms over water usage in drought-prone regions, as well as the visual and noise pollution associated with large-scale facilities. In Michigan, Rogers’ moratorium proposal reflects these broader concerns, framing data centers as a potential strain on public utilities and local governance.
Industry Growth Continues Despite Headwinds
Despite public opposition, the data center industry shows no signs of slowing. Construction spending exceeded $75 billion in July 2026, though this figure covers only the shell structures—the actual costs of equipping facilities with servers and infrastructure can be five times higher. Analysts from KPMG and Cushman & Wakefield note that while short-term growth may face challenges, long-term demand for AI infrastructure remains strong.
Political Ramifications in Key Races
The debate over data centers has emerged as a divisive issue in critical Senate races, including Michigan and Ohio. In Michigan, Rogers’ shift underscores the political risks of embracing unpopular industrial projects. In Pennsylvania, Fetterman’s alignment with Trump contrasts with Gov. Josh Shapiro’s more cautious approach, highlighting divergent Democratic strategies on AI and economic development.
As the 2026 elections approach, candidates from both parties are grappling with how to balance economic growth, environmental concerns, and public sentiment—a challenge that shows no signs of abating.