Voters in ten states approved 38 of 44 measures to restrict data centers in the latest election results. The measures aim to limit the expansion of these facilities, reflecting growing public concern over local impacts. This wave of restrictions marks a significant shift in the political landscape regarding technology infrastructure.
Texas, the primary US hub for artificial intelligence, faces delays for 13 gigawatts of data center capacity. Gina Hinojosa won the Texas governor race, vowing to delay projects until new legislation passes. Democrats also won governor races in Arizona, Georgia, and Ohio, which collectively affect nearly two-thirds of the 2028 data center capacity.
Analysts warn that a slowdown in US data center development could raise AI token prices and potentially aid China. Tech industry leaders downplayed the results, framing them as an ‘anti-Trump’ wave rather than an ‘anti-tech’ mandate. This political shift creates uncertainty for companies planning large-scale infrastructure investments in the coming years.
