Voters rejected data centers in dozens of communities, fueling the narrative that opposition to the AI infrastructure contributed to the 2026 blue wave
For many Americans, opposition to data centers was a factor in their votes.
In the 2026 midterm elections, data centers were a hot topic on local ballots across 10 states. Out of 41 ballot measures concerning these facilities, all but one aimed to restrict or limit their development. This trend sparked a narrative that opposition to AI infrastructure contributed to the Democrats' historic "blue wave" victory.
Sherrod Brown, a Democratic candidate in Ohio's U.S. Senate race, attacked his opponent for past support of data centers. In Texas, Gina Hinojosa's campaign against Republican Gov. Greg Abbott revolved around his record of backing tax breaks for such centers. Her win marked a rare bipartisan shift in control of the state.
According to NBC exit polls, 56% of voters felt that data centers were a major or crucial factor in their congressional vote, with 68% of Black voters sharing this sentiment. Data centers, which are crucial for AI training, consume vast amounts of energy and water, and their noise pollution worries many Americans. Political scientists argue these facilities' costs outweigh their benefits.
The opposition to data centers was remarkably bipartisan. While Democrats were more opposed (69%) than Republicans (54%), it cut across party lines. Even high-profile races, like Ohio's U.S. Senate contest, saw data centers playing a role. Yet, in North Dakota's small town of Harwood, the measure to restrict data centers failed, as local leaders argued it would harm economic development.
The narrative of data centers fueling the Democratic victory gained traction ahead of the election, fueled by unusual alliances in local fights against them. Environmentalists, cost-conscious voters, local-control advocates, and farmers united against these projects, often backed by powerful corporations. Even in Congress, bipartisan support for ratepayer protections for data centers emerged, though some allies pushed for more stringent regulation.
Written by urgent.news from The Conversation's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
