Democrats turn data center backlash into Texas wins, targeting Paxton and GOP

Democrats leveraged local backlash against data centers to secure their first statewide victories in Texas since 1994, with James Talarico defeating Ken Paxton by 12 points. The strategy targeted voters near proposed projects, contributing to sweeping Democratic wins in the midterms. About a quarter of voters called AI and data centers "crucial" to their vote, with opposition to local data center construction running roughly 3-to-1. Democratic candidates like Michigan's Will Lawrence and Ohio's Sherrod Brown centered campaigns on the issue, while Republicans struggled to counter the potent attacks. The data center industry and GOP strategists are now planning for 2028, with some urging Republicans to "recalibrate" their approach. Texas Gov.-elect Gina Hinojosa has called for a moratorium on data centers, while industry groups remain committed to multi-cycle efforts to shape future policy.