Data Center Backlash Becomes Major Issue in 2026 Midterm Elections

Political opposition to data centers is rapidly becoming a major issue in the 2026 US midterm elections, with Democrats and an increasing number of Republicans campaigning against or seeking to restrict the facilities that power the country's artificial-intelligence boom, Dylan Scott reported for Vox.

Growing public opposition to data centers is reshaping political campaigns across the United States ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

In Texas, Democratic gubernatorial candidate Gina Hinojosa has attacked Republican Gov. Greg Abbott over data centers, while Democratic candidates in competitive congressional races have also used opposition to the facilities in campaign advertisements.

The backlash is spreading beyond the Democratic Party.

In Michigan, Republican Senate nominee Mike Rogers has endorsed a one-year moratorium on new data center construction.

In Ohio, Republican leaders have warned that the issue could damage Sen. Jon Husted's reelection prospects. The National Republican Senatorial Committee recently warned AI companies that opposition to data centers was becoming a serious political liability.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, a Democrat who previously promoted major AI and data-center investments, has also shifted his position.

He recently imposed stricter rules on data center development, including measures addressing their impact on electricity and water resources. He has also begun using the issue against his Republican reelection opponent.

The political shift reflects growing public concerns over the impact of data centers on electricity prices, water consumption, land use and local infrastructure.

Data centers have also become a proxy for broader skepticism about artificial intelligence and Big Tech.

Public opposition has risen sharply. A Gallup poll conducted in March found that 71% of Americans opposed construction of data centers in their communities, while an Annenberg Public Policy Center survey found that opposition had risen by 12 percentage points from earlier in the year.

The backlash is creating an unusual political dynamic.

Democrats are seeking to use public frustration with data centers against Republicans who have supported the AI industry, while Republican candidates are increasingly distancing themselves from projects backed by their own party's leadership.

The issue could therefore become a significant factor in competitive House, Senate and gubernatorial races as candidates attempt to balance support for AI investment with voter concerns over the costs and consequences of data center expansion.