President Donald Trump has framed the race for artificial intelligence (AI) against China as a crucial national-security issue, advocating for accelerated technology development and the necessary infrastructure, such as data centers.
However, a recent CNBC All-America Economic Survey reveals a notable divide among Republican voters: while nearly 55% support continued AI development, only 29% are in favor of having a data center within 10 miles of their homes. This opposition is even stronger among the broader electorate, with 63% against nearby data centers.
The survey indicates that concerns about rising electricity costs, environmental impacts, and job displacement due to AI are driving this resistance. As a result, Trump and other Republicans are facing pressure to reconsider their stance on data centers, especially as they approach a challenging midterm election.
The survey also highlights that 18% of voters prioritize regulating AI and data centers, a concern that has gained traction among GOP strategists. In response to this backlash, some Republican leaders, including Ohio's Sen.
Jon Husted and Texas Governor Greg Abbott, have shifted their positions on data center projects, emphasizing the need for local communities to benefit financially from these developments.
Overall, the political landscape surrounding AI is evolving, with a significant portion of voters advocating for a pause in AI development until proper regulations are established, reflecting a growing skepticism about the technology's rapid expansion