Voters rejected data centers in dozens of communities, fueling the narrative that opposition to the AI infrastructure contributed to the 2026 blue wave

For many Americans, opposition to data centers was a factor in their votes.

By: Barbara A. Trish, Grinnell College, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: November 9, 2026

Words: 1,128

Last Updated: 3 hours, 20 minutes ago

By Barbara A. Trish, Grinnell College

Data centers were on the ballot, both directly and indirectly, in the 2026 midterm elections.

A total of 41 local ballot initiatives concerning data centers in 10 states were up for a vote. All but one resulted in measures to restrict or limit their development.

The centers also may have played a role in several high-profile contests. In Ohio’s race for a U.S. Senate seat, Democratic challenger …

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