Data center opposition becomes bipartisan issue in 2026 US midterms

Data center opposition has emerged as a bipartisan issue in the 2026 US midterm elections, with over $31 million spent on political ads mentioning data centers this year and 61% of Americans opposing new local facilities. Voter concerns over electricity prices, water use, land use, and tax incentives have driven the shift, with both Democrats and Republicans increasingly critical. Over 99% of related ad spending opposes AI infrastructure projects, and at least 75 projects worth $130 billion were blocked or delayed in Q1 2026. The backlash creates risks for equipment suppliers like Caterpillar and Deere, while potentially benefiting utilities like NextEra and Duke through grid modernization spending. Former President Trump remains supportive, but local opposition could slow AI infrastructure growth and reshape future policy debates.