78% of Ohioans Support Moratoriums on AI Data Centers

A poll by Bowling Green State University found that 78% of Ohioans support a temporary pause on the development of artificial intelligence (AI) data centers, highlighting growing public concern over the rapid expansion of the facilities.

The poll also found that 75% of respondents opposed data centers being built in their local communities, while 63% opposed their construction in Ohio more broadly.

The findings come as communities across Ohio and other parts of the Midwest grapple with proposals for large data center projects.

Local governments have considered temporary moratoriums as they evaluate potential effects on electricity demand, water resources, land use, and infrastructure.

The debate has also become a political issue, as elected officials and candidates respond to public concerns about data center development and its potential costs and benefits.

A temporary moratorium would give local officials time to review proposed projects and consider rules governing their siting and operation.

Support for a pause, however, does not necessarily mean that respondents oppose every data center project or favor a permanent ban.