U.S. public sentiment turns negative toward data center expansion

Recent surveys indicate a growing trend of negative sentiment among Americans regarding the expansion of data centers. According to a Pew Research Center survey, 54% of U.S. adults believe data centers are mostly bad for the environment, a significant increase from 39% earlier in 2026. Additionally, 50% of respondents stated these facilities increase home energy costs, and 49% believe they harm the quality of life for nearby residents.

While data centers are not currently ranked as a top-three national political issue—with only 7% of registered voters prioritizing them—opposition intensifies at the local level. A Rainey Center for Public Policy poll found that 65% of voters oppose building these facilities in their own communities. Despite low national salience, 71% of voters support requiring operators to sign community benefits agreements covering jobs, tax revenue, and grid upgrades before construction.

Political responses to the issue vary. While President Trump supports data center expansion, Texas Governor Greg Abbott imposed a statewide moratorium in August, and governors in Pennsylvania and Illinois have moved toward stricter oversight. Opposition is particularly notable in rural areas, where 50% of residents view data centers as detrimental to the environment.