After the midterms, a bigger clash over data centers could be coming

Data center opposition has become a significant issue in the US, with over 60% of voters saying data centers were a major factor in their midterm vote decisions. The issue cut across party lines, with Democrats and Republicans opposing data center construction in their neighborhoods. With Democrats now in control of Congress, new limits on data center construction and community involvement may be implemented. The backlash against data centers is particularly strong in states like Ohio, where OpenAI has planned a $500 billion data center, and Tennessee, where xAI's gas-powered data center has sparked concerns about air pollution. Voters are concerned about the impact of data centers on national security and local communities, with many believing that AI will do more harm than good. The issue may lead to a clash between data center supporters, who argue that the infrastructure is essential for the US to stay ahead in war and competition with China, and opponents, who prioritize community concerns and the environment.