29 US Jurisdictions Back AI Data Center Restrictions — SkimNews
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- At least 29 U.S. jurisdictions approved bans or restrictions on data-center development in the November 3 elections, according to The Washington Post, marking a broad grassroots backlash.
- Ohio saw 10 charter amendments pass through Conserve Ohio’s efforts, with over 75% support in Hubbard and 78%–82% in Granville, Trenton, and Sunbury favoring data center limits.
- Illinois and Wisconsin voters rejected AI data center projects or demanded more oversight, including an 80% no vote in Joliet Township and a 60% yes vote in Janesville for additional public approval.
- OpenAI is rebranding data centers as 'compute campuses' to counter negative perceptions, as industry leaders warn that restrictions could hinder U.S. AI investment.
- Gina Hinojosa and Amy Acton, candidates who campaigned on data center moratoriums, won gubernatorial races in Texas and Ohio respectively, signaling potential for stricter statewide rules.
- BlackRock CEO Larry Fink warned that a broad data center moratorium could trigger a U.S. recession, underscoring industry concerns over economic fallout from local restrictions.
Why it matters: Local voters and newly elected officials now hold leverage over AI infrastructure expansion, challenging tech and investment leaders who argue that delays risk U.S. competitiveness and economic growth. With 29 jurisdictions acting and high-profile political wins, the balance of power shifts toward community oversight.
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