How data centres became the sleeper issue that could decide the US midterms
BBC News explores the unexpected rise of data centres as a political hot-button topic ahead of the US midterm elections.
A Growing Public Backlash
A year ago, a longtime US senator paid little mind to data centres. Now, however, according to an anonymous senior policy adviser, regular meetings are being held to track their impact and new legislation is in the works to curb their rapid expansion.
The shift in focus is driven by a swelling public outcry that has left politicians scrambling to respond. Data centres, the large warehouses housing the processing power necessary for internet activity, have become a physical manifestation of the rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI) and the diverse fears surrounding it.
"I don't want to be the guinea pig for this," expressed Angelita Soriano, an Indiana resident, describing her sentiments about a new Amazon data centre being built across the street from her home.
Some data centres are even larger in scale. In Ohio, a collaboration between OpenAI, Nvidia, SB Energy, and the US Department of Energy is planning a data centre complex spanning approximately six square miles—a size comparable to many US townships.
Rapid Growth and Local Control
There are currently around 3,000 data centres operating in the US, with projections suggesting this number could double in the coming years, according to a Pew Research Center report. Data centres are constructed under local rules and permits, leaving federal lawmakers with limited influence.
Nevertheless, the intensity of opposition has compelled politicians at all levels to take a stand.
"This isn't just an issue on the left; there is significant pushback among conservatives towards data centres," noted Chloe Autio, an AI policy adviser, adding that articulating a clear position could be advantageous for politicians.
The senator's policy adviser echoed this sentiment, stating, "There is a clear policy need here that we're aiming to address. This backlash across the country is real—constituents are witnessing the effects of data centres, and they're not happy about it."
Clash with President Trump
This shift in sentiment has placed many on Capitol Hill, even Republicans, at odds with President Donald Trump, who has championed the unfettered growth of AI technology. Trump has dismissed the backlash as a "sick conspiracy" and criticised communities attempting to prevent data centres from being built, labelling them "backwards and poor."