Bipartisan Backlash Hits Big Tech and AI Infrastructure

A bipartisan movement against Big Tech has intensified across the United States, targeting artificial intelligence, mass surveillance, and the expansion of data centers. Public distrust has led to the blocking or delaying of at least 75 data center projects worth $130 billion in early 2026, as citizens cite concerns over pollution, noise, and resource strain. Polling indicates more than 70% of Americans oppose building these facilities in their neighborhoods, fearing energy cost hikes and the replacement of human workers by AI.

Donald Trump has defended data centers as essential infrastructure for the AI era, while tech leaders like OpenAI CEO Sam Altman argue that limiting compute power would hinder breakthroughs in medicine and education. Despite this, elected officials from both parties are acting. Senator Bernie Sanders has pledged legislation to curb AI mass surveillance, and Governor Ron DeSantis has initiated restrictions or investigations into these technologies.

Privacy concerns have also triggered a Stop Flock movement against Flock Safety's AI-powered license plate readers. Approximately 100 jurisdictions have paused or canceled contracts following reports of police misconduct and privacy violations. In a separate but related trend of corporate accountability, Meta Platforms Incorporated reached an $18 billion settlement with 48 states over child safety claims. Republican strategists now view AI safeguards as a critical issue for the 2026 midterm elections, noting that grassroots anger over Silicon Valley transcends traditional political divides.