Recent polls reveal a majority of Americans oppose new data centers for AI in their communities. This sentiment is influencing Republican candidates in current elections to dissociate from President Donald Trump’s stance. Trump champions data center expansion, emphasizing economic benefits, yet many Republicans are reconsidering.

A Fox News poll indicates that 70% of voters want to slow down data center construction. Only 30% support it. Among Republicans, only 40% are in favor, with MAGA Republicans slightly higher at 46%.

Concerns Over Energy and Water Usage

Opposition arises due to concerns about increased electricity costs and the impact on water resources. Former Rep. Mike Rogers, a Senate nominee in Michigan, initially supported data centers. Recently, he suggested a one-year moratorium to protect community interests and control utility prices.

“Michigan needs stronger guardrails to protect community control,” Rogers explained.

Key Senate Races Impacted

Ohio’s Senate race highlights the tension. GOP Sen. Jon Husted faces opposition from Democrat Sherrod Brown over data centers. Brown’s camp has run ads portraying Husted as synonymous with data centers.

The National Republican Senatorial Committee warned that data centers could be detrimental to Husted’s campaign. Husted has proposed legislation to alleviate the burden on average Americans for data center energy costs.

Broader Republican Pushback

Opposition isn’t limited to Michigan and Ohio. In Texas, Attorney General Ken Paxton proposed a plan to curb data center growth. Texas Governor Greg Abbott has paused new data center connections pending a regulatory review.

Republican nominee for governor in Wisconsin, Tom Tiffany, opposes data centers without strict conditions. He criticizes his opponent, labeling him “Data Center David Crowley.” Pennsylvania GOP gubernatorial nominee Stacy Garrity also supports a temporary halt in her state.

Not all Republicans favor a moratorium. Rep. Byron Donalds, a gubernatorial nominee, has introduced legislation requiring AI data centers to self-supply power and water.

Trump’s Position

Trump remains a proponent of data centers, warning that halting development might benefit China. However, he allows Republican dissent, acknowledging their concerns.

Republican strategist Matt Gorman says Trump’s approach is pragmatic. Gorman highlights the need for AI companies to better communicate the advantages of data centers.

Industry Response

The AI sector is responding with a public campaign advocating for balanced policies. Build American AI, an industry group, emphasizes safeguarding ratepayers and the environment while fostering data center investment.

The group urges that communities should decide on hosting data centers and stresses the importance of developing infrastructure to maintain AI leadership globally.

Paul Steinhauser reports on national campaigns for Fox News.