Gasoline prices expected to outweigh data center issues in 2026 midterms

While former President Barack Obama suggested that Democratic candidates should use the expansion of data center infrastructure as a central campaign issue for the 2026 midterm elections, current political trends suggest otherwise. Obama previously advised House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries that while rapid AI development under private control could be dangerous, it also offers benefits like drug development and clean energy solutions.

However, a report from the coalition Infrastructure For America (IFA) indicates that data centers have remained a minor issue in key state races, including those in Georgia, Iowa, Ohio, Michigan, and Texas. Instead of focusing on artificial intelligence infrastructure, the upcoming elections appear more likely to be shaped by the cost of living, specifically gasoline and diesel prices.