Americans Really Don’t Like Data Centers
How AI lost the midterms
In recent years, growing concern over artificial intelligence has led to over 80% of Americans believing the technology is advancing too rapidly. More than 70% of the population opposes the construction of data centers near their areas. Despite tech companies pouring hundreds of millions into the current election to fend off potential regulations, they were ultimately unsuccessful in their efforts.
A nationwide contest unfolded, with residents in at least 10 US states voting on measures to curb data center development, including moratoriums and zoning regulations. Several mayors faced recall votes following their endorsement of local data center projects. Democratic candidates, such as Abdul El-Sayed in Michigan and Sherrod Brown in Ohio, prioritized AI and data center regulation in their campaigns.
California residents voted on a proposed "billionaire tax" that Silicon Valley executives strongly opposed. At least nine governors who support statewide data center bans will serve in office next year. The tech giants, who have traditionally shielded themselves from regulation, now face a growing backlash. Candidates who openly criticized the tech companies won key races, while anti-data-center ballot measures passed in red and blue counties across the nation.
This shift in public opinion marks a significant turning point, as tech companies have long been able to resist meaningful regulation.
Written by urgent.news from The Atlantic's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
