Data center developers face backlash over secretive tax deals in rural America

Data center developers are facing growing community opposition across rural America, with local officials accusing companies of withholding project details while seeking massive tax breaks, according to a 60 Minutes investigation. In Hood County, Texas, Commissioner Dave Eagle said Amazon Web Services pitched vague promises of jobs and community benefits before requesting up to 90% property tax rebates for 30 years. The project moved to a neighboring county where AWS received the incentives. Over 3,000 data centers exist in the U.S., with 1,500 more proposed, driven by AI's enormous electricity demands. Opposition spans political divides, with over 60% of Americans across parties opposing local data centers. Texas Governor Greg Abbott paused new grid connections pending audits, while residents in Red Oak, Texas, fight a proposed 800-acre campus covering a quarter of their town.