Trump Defends AI Data Centers Despite 71% Opposition as Texas Halts New Approvals
Updated
Updated · Forbes · Aug 24
Trump Defends AI Data Centers Despite 71% Opposition as Texas Halts New Approvals
3 articles · Updated · Forbes · Aug 24
Summary
Trump said communities rejecting AI data centers are “making a mistake,” arguing the projects bring jobs and tax revenue and insisting companies can build their own power plants rather than strain the grid.
Greg Abbott sharpened the backlash Sunday, saying the AI industry “dug their own grave” by failing to coordinate with state and local officials after Texas imposed a moratorium on new data center approvals.
New York last month also paused large new data center buildouts while it drafts environmental rules and studies grid effects, showing resistance now spans both Republican and Democratic governors.
71% of Americans oppose data centers in their communities, according to Gallup, and Republican strategists already warn the issue could hurt GOP candidates in the midterms, including in Ohio.