America’s AI Backlash Is Coming to the Ballot Box

On November 2026 midterm elections, 41 U.S. communities will vote on data center-related measures that could either restrict or enable AI data center construction, reflecting public sentiment on AI. Many voters oppose data centers due to concerns about pollution, noise, and rising costs, while supporters highlight economic benefits. New York recently enacted a one-year moratorium on large data centers, and similar bans are on ballots in several towns.