interesting where data centers are having the most fierce opposition... red or blue state doesn't seem to matter much.
Visual Capitalist
Mapped: U.S. States With the Most Data Center Opposition
Which U.S. states face the most data center opposition? Explore where projects are contested and why Americans are growing skeptical.
Americans Are Growing More Skeptical of Data Centers
A Pew Research Center survey found that 54% of Americans viewed data centers as mostly bad for the environment in August 2026, up from 39% in January. Negative perceptions of their impact on nearby quality of life rose from 30% to 49%.
Meanwhile, a Gallup survey found that 71% of Americans opposed AI data center construction in their local area.
As AI expands across industries, from critical mineral supply chains to infrastructure, communities are weighing technological investment against local costs.
New facilities can bring investment and tax revenue, but residents are also scrutinizing their long-term effects on electricity costs, water resources, and local infrastructure. Wider concerns about jobs exposed to AI add another dimension to the debate.
seems to me we need a national plan moving forward before we build Skynet...
By
Crnr2Crnr ·
