A nationwide backlash against data centers erupts at the polls; The Washington Post, November 4, 2026

 

Miriam Waldvogel

, 

Shira Ovide

 and 

Evan Halper

, The Washington Post ; A nationwide backlash against data centers erupts at the polls

In at least 38 jurisdictions voters rejected or restricted data centers, delivering a major setback to the AI industry.

"Voters in at least 38 jurisdictions across the country passed bans or restrictions on data centers Tuesday, reflecting the widespread public revulsion to the facilities and adding to the growing pushback on the ambitions of the artificial intelligence industry."