Texas Governor Suddenly Turns on Data Centers as Backlash Grows

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has taken an unexpected stance against data centers as opposition to their growth rapidly gains momentum. During an interview with ABC, Abbott expressed his dissatisfaction with AI companies, stating that they have "basically dug their own grave" for the backlash they are facing. This shift in position is particularly surprising, as just months ago, Abbott was a vocal advocate for the AI boom in Texas, praising the state as the "epicenter of AI development" and offering major tax incentives.

The backlash against data centers is now a growing bipartisan movement, uniting vast swaths of the population against the tech. Lawmakers are starting to realize that the issue could potentially turn into a significant political crisis, with consequences not just for the upcoming midterms but also for the 2028 presidential election. Abbott recently instituted a moratorium on new data center projects, citing concerns over the strain they would place on the state's power grid.

Abbott pointed to the speed at which data centers are being built and the lack of collaboration with local governments as reasons for the public's opposition. He emphasized the importance of gaining the support of local communities before operating in Texas. However, securing such support proves to be a challenging task. A recent Pew Research Center poll revealed that 52 percent of Americans now feel more apprehensive than excited about the increased use of AI in daily life, a significant rise from 37 percent in 2021.