A new Gallup survey reveals that 70% of Americans oppose data centers being built in their communities, with nearly half expressing strong opposition. The intensity of this sentiment is so high that more Americans would prefer living near a nuclear power plant than a data center. This bipartisan opposition, particularly strong among Democrats (56% strongly oppose) compared to Republicans (39%), presents significant challenges for state and local officials trying to balance public sentiment against business leaders' push for data centers to spur economic development. The findings align with other recent surveys showing growing opposition, with Virginia seeing opposition jump from less than 25% to 59% in just one year. Major concerns include energy consumption driving up electricity costs and straining power grids, leading to grassroots activism, legal challenges, and political consequences for officials who supported data centers.

Key Points:

- 70% of Americans oppose data centers in their communities

- More Americans prefer living near nuclear power plants than data centers

- Opposition is bipartisan but stronger among Democrats (56% strongly oppose) than Republicans (39%)

- Growing opposition is creating challenges for officials and businesses seeking to build data centers

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