A Fox News opinion piece argues that public opposition to new data centres mirrors the backlash fracking faced a decade ago, and urges the AI industry to ignore or overcome it rather than slow down. The author cites polling showing 70% of Americans oppose new data centres in their area and notes that 40% of planned facilities have been delayed or cancelled in 2026, framing this resistance as a strategic gift to China in the AI race, and draws parallels between anti-data-centre sentiment today and Russian-linked opposition to fracking previously.

The piece highlights political moves such as Texas Governor Greg Abbott's construction moratorium and New York Governor Kathy Hochul's similar caution, alongside claims that over 200 China-linked social media accounts have spread data centre misinformation. Drawing lessons from the fracking industry's eventual success — which the article credits with making the US the world's top oil and gas producer — the author recommends that AI and power companies fight opposition locally, partner with communities and environmental groups, and ensure new facilities bring their own power supply, as urged by President Trump, to avoid raising electricity costs.