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Data center double-down: Hassett says blue wave won’t stop AI build-out
White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett said the Democrats’ midterm gains would not halt the expansion of AI and data centres. He argued that political uncertainty may unsettle markets, but that even slower growth in the sector would leave the economy strong.
A CNBC Voter Poll found 56% of midterm voters viewed data centres as a crucial or major issue; among those who called them crucial, 62% backed the generic Democratic candidate. President Donald Trump reiterated his support for the industry, calling AI “Super Intelligence” and saying states that welcome it could benefit financially.
In short
- Hassett says political change will not stop data centre growth.
- 56% of voters saw data centres as a major or crucial issue.
- Trump reaffirmed support for AI and its expansion.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters can argue that AI and data centres are long-term investments in productivity, innovation and economic growth, and that midterm results are no reason to abandon them. Continued expansion could attract capital, create jobs and help the United States remain competitive; political uncertainty may affect markets without changing the sector’s underlying promise.
The case against
Critics can argue that electoral gains and polling show real public concern about data centres, so expansion should not be treated as inevitable or insulated from democratic scrutiny. They may favour stronger local oversight of facilities’ effects on communities and infrastructure, and contend that slower growth could allow those costs to be assessed while preserving room for beneficial AI development.
Explained simply
Data centres are large buildings filled with computers that store and process information. They support online services and the growing use of artificial intelligence, which requires substantial computing power and electricity.
The United States’ AI expansion involves technology companies, energy providers and governments deciding where to build facilities and how to supply them. Local residents and voters may also be affected by questions such as electricity demand, land use and the costs and benefits for nearby communities.
The issue has become part of a wider debate over economic growth, energy and government policy. Federal and state decisions can influence where data centres are built and how quickly the industry develops.
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