Texas data center backlash becomes a major election issue
The Verge reports that local opposition to AI data center development is spreading across Texas, with projects facing resistance in Taylor, Temple, and San Marcos, which has banned the facilities. An August poll found that 57% of Texans opposed data center construction, including 43% of Republicans, 75% of Democrats, and 54% of independents. The state has introduced permit pauses and infrastructure-cost rules, but advocacy groups say some projects are still being processed despite Governor Greg Abbott’s directives.
Data center opposition now spans party lines in a major AI hub and is becoming a significant issue in Texas elections, while disputes over permits, water, power, subsidies, and local oversight remain unresolved.
Election 2026
Voters in Texas agree: They hate data centers
Some are even mad enough to vote for Democrats.
by Justine Calma
Oct 28, 2026, 12:00 PM UTC
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