Trump warns communities opposed to data centers are “making a mistake” — but Texas Gov. Greg Abbott data centers “got the backlash they deserve”
Data center opposition is quickly becoming a people versus President issue, but Trump says those opposed to data centers are making a mistake.
During an interview, President Trump warned communities opposed to data centers that they were "making a mistake," emphasizing that these centers bring "tremendous amounts of jobs and money" to their areas. Texas Governor Greg Abbott also expressed his view on data centers, claiming they "dug their own grave" and "got the backlash they deserve."
These statements come as AI data centers are demanding significant energy from US power grids, prompting Trump to lift clean air restrictions and support the repeal of environmental protections. This has led to the construction of massive gas turbine plants that release pollutants and negatively impact local residents' health. Concerns about AI are widespread, with many Americans fearing job loss, especially younger generations.
Additionally, there is a growing worry that AI regulations and governance are falling behind, resulting in a lack of proper planning for AI's development and potential benefits for all citizens. While data centers may create short-term jobs during construction, they typically require only a small staff once operational. Larger firms often handle data center construction, and once the center is up and running, the job opportunities tend to be concentrated in industries leveraging AI capacity.
Although some industries are experiencing a rise in AI-related jobs, 2026 has seen the worst year for AI layoffs, with over 176,000 people losing their jobs due to AI-related reasons. Moreover, tax incentives like those offered to Meta for its 4,000-acre data center campus have led to tax exemptions worth $3.3 billion, but significant revenue losses have been projected in states like Ohio, where exemptions have cost the state $1.6 billion.
As the American public remains divided on AI's impact, the Trump administration's continued support for AI without addressing concerns about sustainability and job creation may result in further opposition to the administration's AI agenda.
Written by urgent.news from TechRadar's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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