On June 13, Politico analyzed data from the data analytics firm Data Center Map, revealing that 58% of the 69 competitive congressional districts are either currently constructing or planning data centers.
Across the United States, approximately 1,500 data centers are in various stages of planning or construction in 232 congressional districts, nearly evenly distributed between Democratic and Republican areas.
However, the concentration of data center construction in districts that will determine the majority in the House of Representatives is raising political concerns. Many of these competitive districts are held by Republicans, who tend to be more favorable toward data centers, suggesting they could influence the upcoming midterm elections.
The rapid growth of data centers, driven by surging demand for AI, has sparked local opposition due to rising electricity costs, water usage, farmland conversion, and the increasing influence of big tech companies.
Rep. Marcy Kaptur, a Democrat defending her seat in Ohio's 9th district, noted, "In our area, there are more political signs opposing AI than supporting candidates in the upcoming election," adding that public opposition is emerging organically from grassroots movements.
In some areas, campaigns are underway for referendums to ban data center construction, and state-level regulatory bills are being introduced. There have been instances where construction plans have been canceled or halted due to community backlash.
Despite these challenges, Politico pointed out that both parties have failed to present a unified message regarding data centers.
A Democratic strategist involved in the House elections stated, "There is no nationwide unified message on this issue, but in certain districts, data centers will be a significant factor."
Political advertisements reflect this sentiment. According to the political advertising analysis firm AdImpact, all ads mentioning data centers during this election cycle were critical of them, primarily targeting Republican figures who supported data centers.
Candidates are hesitant to take clear stances on data centers due to pressure from tech industry lobbyists and environmental groups. Supporting data centers could make them targets for environmentalists and local residents, while being overly critical could alienate financial support from the tech sector, which wields significant political influence.
Brendan Steinhauser, a Republican political consultant from Texas, remarked, "They are caught in a dilemma. Politically, appearing too close to big tech or representing their interests is unwise, yet a lot of money flows from that direction."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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