US voters back data center restrictions amid backlash over artificial intelligence expansion

A total of 41 local measures concerning data centers appeared on ballots across 10 states, including California, Florida, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, North Dakota, New Jersey, Nevada, Ohio and Wisconsin, according to Ballotpedia.

Of those, 28 proposed restrictions on development, while 13 sought to facilitate or support new projects.

The measures ranged from outright bans and temporary construction moratoriums to requirements for voter approval, additional financial safeguards and zoning changes.

Some proposals targeted facilities with electricity demands exceeding 25 megawatts, while others sought to suspend new development or permitting for up to six months.

Voters approve local restrictions

In Alhambra, California, approximately 82% of voters supported a measure prohibiting data center construction throughout the city.

In Edgewater, Florida, 77% backed a ban on the approval, construction, expansion and operation of new facilities.

Meanwhile, nearly 78% of voters in Bloomington, Illinois, approved a nonbinding proposal recommending a temporary moratorium on large-scale projects.

Ohio had the highest concentration of data center-related ballot measures, with 21 proposals, including restrictions on facilities consuming more than 25 megawatts of electricity in several municipalities.

Opposition has been fueled by concerns over the facilities' substantial power and water requirements, potential increases in utility bills, pressure on local electricity grids and noise pollution.

At least 45 data center projects worth a combined $68 billion were blocked or delayed in the second quarter of 2026 because of local opposition, according to Data Center Watch.

Data center opposition shapes governor races

The issue also featured prominently in gubernatorial contests in states with major technology infrastructure investments.

In Texas, which has 561 data centers either operating, planned or under construction, Democratic state Rep. Gina Hinojosa defeated three-term Republican Gov. Greg Abbott.

Hinojosa campaigned on imposing a statewide moratorium on new projects until stronger regulations are introduced and local communities have greater involvement in decisions affecting them.

In Georgia, home to 232 facilities, former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms won the governor's race after campaigning for a halt to new data center construction.

The victories came as Democrats also secured control of both chambers of Congress, according to US media projections.

The shift in political power has raised questions about the future of federal oversight of the rapidly expanding industry, including potential regulatory scrutiny of major technology companies.