Voters in multiple states have rejected unrestrained data center development in local ballot measures and battleground races. Several governors have enacted executive orders to slow the approval of new AI data centers. Texas Democratic Governor-elect Gina Hinojosa supports a statewide moratorium.
Data center restrictions passed in 33 of 45 local measures across the country. Maine voters backed a 180-day moratorium on large data centers, and Ohio cities banned facilities exceeding 25MW. Kansas City banned data centers with a peak load over 10MW for 10 years.
76% of voters oppose data centers in their communities, showing strong local resistance to infrastructure projects. This wave of bans and moratoriums signals a shift in how policymakers approach the rapid expansion of AI infrastructure. Developers and utility companies must now navigate a complex patchwork of local regulations. 76% of voters oppose data centers in their communities. 33 of 45 local ballot measures restricting data center development passed. Maine voters backed a 180-day moratorium on large data centers. Ohio cities voted to ban data centers exceeding 25MW. Kansas City banned data centers with a peak load over 10MW for 10 years. Texas Democratic Governor-elect Gina Hinojosa supports a statewide moratorium. Several governors enacted executive orders to slow AI data center approvals. Voters rejected unrestrained development in battleground races and local measures. Developers and utility companies must now navigate a complex patchwork of local regulations.
