Backlash to data centers could cost GOP a Senate seat in Ohio, Republicans warn

The National Republican Senatorial Committee has warned that data centers in Ohio could cost Republican Sen. John Husted a Senate seat. Ohio Republicans are concerned that backlash against data centers could impact GOP chances of defending Husted's position in November. The memo obtained by ABC News reveals that Husted and Democratic opponent Sherrod Brown are in a tight race, but Brown has made opposition to data centers the cornerstone of his campaign.

In response, the Ohio Democratic Party spokesman Tony Wen said Ohioans will hold Husted accountable for increased utility bills. Husted has introduced a proposal requiring states to set up new standards for data centers to pay for their own power generation and prevent costs from being passed to consumers. While AI companies have spent millions on congressional races, recent polls show the public remains skeptical about AI data centers, with 71% opposing construction in their area.