Trump-backed data center industry faces growing revolt in the United States

Companies that build and operate AI data centers, long supported by former President Donald Trump, are encountering a widening backlash across the United States. Executives say Trump's vocal endorsement has not halted opposition, and many projects are being stalled.

State lawmakers, including Rep. Nancy Mace (R‑SC), have called for moratoriums on new facilities. A proposed data‑center project in Ohio was halted, and similar resistance has emerged in Indiana after nondisclosure agreements between local officials and firms. In Louisiana, a secret tax and land‑use deal for Meta to build a data center was revealed, further fueling distrust.

Polling cited by Politico shows a majority of Americans side with opponents who argue the centers raise electricity costs. Industry advisers note that executives are now wary of public engagement, describing the political climate as a "firestorm" that could damage the sector.