America’s data center backlash is bipartisan — can it stay that way?

Texas Governor Greg Abbott and New York Governor Kathy Hochul have taken opposing approaches to regulating data center development, reflecting a bipartisan backlash against AI-ready facilities. Polling shows 70% of Americans oppose local data center construction, with 75% of Democrats and 63% of Republicans against it. At least 75 projects worth $130 billion were stalled or blocked in early 2026 due to concerns over energy use, resource depletion, and community impacts.