Congress Splits Over Trump's 2,500-Foot Data Center Fight as Local Opposition Grows

3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Sep 15

Democrats and some Republicans are breaking with Trump’s push to speed data-center construction, arguing communities need stronger protections as local backlash spreads.
Ro Khanna’s proposed Data Center Bill of Rights would bar facilities within 2,500 feet of homes, schools, child care centers, hospitals and nursing homes, while other Democrats cite water use and higher power bills.
Republicans are divided rather than unified: Nancy Mace backs AI investment to compete with China but rejects projects in residential areas, while Ralph Norman says states and localities should decide.
Trump has refused calls to slow development and warned communities blocking data centers could become “backwards and poor,” sharpening a broader fight over AI growth versus local costs.

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