US voters backed restrictions on data center construction in midterm elections

Voters backed restrictions

In the US midterm elections, voters in a number of states supported restrictions on data center development, reflecting growing resistance to large-scale artificial intelligence infrastructure projects amid concerns about electricity prices, water consumption, and environmental impact. This was reported by Anadolu citing data from Ballotpedia.

Scale of the vote

In total, 41 local data center questions were placed on ballots in 10 states — California, Florida, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, North Dakota, New Jersey, Nevada, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Of these, 28 proposed restricting construction, while 13 proposed easing or supporting new projects. The measures ranged from outright bans and temporary moratoriums to requirements for voter approval, additional financial guarantees, and zoning changes. Some proposals concerned facilities consuming more than 25 megawatts of electricity, while others called for suspending new construction or permitting for up to six months.

Results in specific cities

In Alhambra, California, about 82% of voters supported a ban on building data centers within the city. In Edgewater, Florida, 77% voted to ban the approval, construction, expansion, and operation of new facilities. In Bloomington, Illinois, nearly 78% approved an advisory initiative recommending a temporary moratorium on large projects. The highest concentration of questions was in Ohio — 21 proposals, including restrictions on facilities consuming more than 25 megawatts in a number of municipalities.

Reasons for discontent and gubernatorial races

According to the outlet, the resistance is fueled by concerns over the significant electricity and water needs of the facilities, potential increases in utility bills, strain on local power grids, and noise pollution. According to Data Center Watch, in the second quarter of 2026, at least 45 data center projects with a combined value of $68 billion were blocked or delayed due to local opposition. The issue also featured in gubernatorial races: in Texas, where 561 data centers are operating, under construction, or planned, Democrat Gina Hinojosa defeated three-term Republican Governor Greg Abbott, having campaigned for a statewide moratorium on new projects until stricter rules are adopted. In Georgia, with 232 facilities, former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms won, having advocated halting new construction. These victories coincided with Democrats, according to projections by US media, gaining control of both chambers of Congress, which raises the question of the future of federal oversight of the rapidly growing industry.