Americans Oppose AI Data Centers as Trump Fast-Tracks Permitting

A Gallup poll reveals that 71% of Americans oppose the construction of AI data centers in their neighborhoods, a higher level of resistance than the 53% opposition to nuclear power plants. Dissenters primarily cite strains on local water and energy resources, pollution, and increased utility costs. This widespread opposition has contributed to the blocking or delaying of over $64 billion in projects across states including Oregon, Indiana, Ohio, and Missouri.

In response to local resistance, Donald Trump issued executive orders to fast-track the permitting of AI data centers on federal lands and national forests. At the state level, the conflict is manifesting in Florida, where a pro-AI super PAC called Leading the Future pledged $5 million to the gubernatorial campaign of Representative Byron Donalds. This funding has sparked backlash from voters who contrast Donalds' ties to tech billionaires with Governor Ron DeSantis' efforts to prevent ratepayers from subsidizing such facilities.

Industry leaders and policymakers argue these facilities are critical for national security and economic competition with China. In Ohio, Pat Tiberi of the Ohio Business Roundtable has opposed construction bans, while the Ohio General Assembly established a bipartisan joint committee to manage policy. Meanwhile, developers like Kevin O'Leary face intense protests in Utah over a project that critics claim could consume more than twice the state's current power, leading the developer to plan an on-site natural gas plant.