Voters in eight states will decide on 41 ballot measures this midterm election that seek to slow the development of AI data centers or impose new restrictions. The measures reflect growing public opposition to facilities that consume vast amounts of electricity and water, a trend documented in a May Gallup poll showing more than 70% of Americans oppose their construction in local areas.
A separate analysis by the Data Center Opposition Project found over 200 new grassroots groups opposing data centers emerged between June and August, signaling heightened voter engagement on the issue. The opposition spans political lines, with concerns centered on potential higher utility costs for residents and strain on local infrastructure.
Ohio is set to host what the Trump administration calls the "world's largest AI data center." The facility, being developed by SB Energy with a $1.5 billion investment from Nvidia, will be leased by OpenAI for 20 years. President Donald Trump has framed data centers as critical to U.S. economic growth and maintaining a competitive edge in AI against China, stating in an August post on Truth Social: 'If they want to be successful and rich, with far lower taxes and jobs all over the place, let Data Reign.'
In contrast, progressive lawmakers including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Bernie Sanders have called for a national moratorium on new AI data centers until stronger safeguards are implemented. Their stance aligns with broader progressive concerns about corporate accountability and environmental impact.
Ballot Measures by State
Voters in Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, and Virginia will consider measures ranging from moratoriums on new construction to heightened environmental reviews and tax incentives for affected communities. The measures vary in scope, with some targeting specific industries like cryptocurrency mining, which often relies on similar infrastructure.
Economic vs. Environmental Trade-offs
Proponents of data centers argue they create high-paying jobs and drive technological innovation, with supporters pointing to investments like Nvidia’s $1.5 billion commitment in Ohio. Opponents counter that the facilities impose long-term costs on local governments, including increased water and energy consumption that could lead to higher utility bills for residents. The Gallup poll cited rising living costs as a key driver of opposition, with many voters viewing data centers as a symbol of corporate burden on households.
Political Implications
The ballot measures could influence races at the federal and state levels, particularly in districts where data center projects have sparked controversy. Candidates who have supported such projects may face backlash, while opponents are leveraging the issue to mobilize voters. The Data Center Opposition Project notes that the rapid formation of local groups suggests the issue has broad, cross-partisan appeal, potentially reshaping electoral dynamics in key districts.