Mike Johnson calls opposition to data centers a ‘Chinese psyop’

House Speaker Mike Johnson has characterized domestic opposition to data center construction as a ‘Chinese psyop.’ Speaking on Fox Business, Johnson suggested that the pushback against these facilities is being driven by Chinese influence, a sentiment echoed by host Cheryl Casone. Johnson criticized Democrats for using such issues as political messaging during election cycles.

While foreign actors like China and Russia may attempt to exploit existing domestic tensions, intelligence experts suggest that the debate itself is homegrown. Jessica Brandt, a former official with the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, noted that foreign entities aim to ‘deepen our divisions’ rather than manufacture the debates themselves.

Public sentiment data indicates significant local resistance to data centers. A YouGov poll showed nearly two-thirds of Americans oppose local data center construction, while a Gallup poll found 71 percent of Americans were opposed to having one built near them. Concerns cited by residents and local governments include the impact on jobs, climate change, noise pollution, and visual aesthetics. These concerns have led to various cities and counties enacting moratoria on new projects.