VOTERS REJECT AI DATA CENTERS, BUT NO PARTY GAINS EDGE

The survey of 1,503 likely voters conducted in early September found strong opposition to data center expansion. Just 14% strongly support construction, while the remaining respondents were split relatively evenly between parties. The findings reflect growing public concern about AI infrastructure and its environmental and community impacts. Both Democrats and Republicans have begun responding to constituent pressure, though neither camp has staked out a decisive policy position. The timing of the poll predates recent AI safety slowdown discussions that may further shape voter sentiment. As data centers become increasingly central to AI deployment, infrastructure battles are emerging as a key political issue heading into 2024. The lack of partisan advantage suggests this could become a bipartisan concern shaping technology policy across jurisdictions.