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Big Tech claims voters’ AI backlash is “anti-Trump” not “anti-tech”
Voters in US elections backed tighter restrictions on artificial intelligence and data centres, putting President Donald Trump’s rapid AI expansion at risk of delays. The results matter because new rules could slow future projects, raise costs for developers and increase protections for communities concerned about water, electricity, air pollution and household bills.
Redbud Consulting reported that 38 of 44 ballot measures seeking data-centre restrictions across 10 states had passed; most would affect future projects rather than facilities already approved or under construction. In Texas, governor-elect Gina Hinojosa has pledged to delay projects until new protections are enacted, putting about 13 gigawatts of planned capacity at risk. Democrats also won governorships in Arizona, Georgia and Ohio, while some technology-industry figures argued the backlash reflected opposition to Trump rather than to technology itself.
In short
- Voters backed restrictions on data centres and AI.
- Texas could delay about 13 gigawatts of capacity.
- Industry figures say the backlash may be political.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
The ballot results and concerns about water use, electricity demand, pollution and household bills suggest that many voters want stronger safeguards before data centres and AI projects expand. Supporters of tighter rules can argue that local communities should have a meaningful say and that growth should proceed only when its costs are addressed.
The case against
Technology-industry figures can argue that the results reflect opposition to Trump and his rapid expansion agenda, rather than rejection of AI or data centres themselves. They may also contend that broad restrictions could delay useful investment, raise development costs and impede innovation, while targeted protections could address community concerns with less disruption.
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