A Fox News national poll finds voters increasingly wary of artificial intelligence, particularly the local costs and environmental impact of the data centres needed to support it. While most oppose building such centres in their own communities, a narrow majority support placing them in remote areas, highlighting a “Not In My Backyard” divide. The findings suggest AI is emerging as a political wedge issue ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Seventy-one per cent oppose data centres near where they live, including 46% who strongly oppose them, while 52% support facilities in remote locations. Support falls sharply when voters hear that centres could strain water supplies, increase energy bills or become excessively large, but rises when they are linked to online services, critical infrastructure or competition with China. Overall, 60% view AI unfavourably and 37% favourably, with majorities seeing it as harmful to jobs, the environment, society, mental health and the economy; Democrats lead Republicans by seven points on the generic congressional ballot.