AI companies can soften support for statewide data center moratoriums like New York’s by committing to pay for related electricity costs and lessen local environmental impacts, according to a new poll from major firms in both parties.
The research was conducted by Fabrizio Ward and Impact Research — run by Trump pollster Tony Fabrizio and Biden pollster John Anzalone, respectively — on behalf of the American Infrastructure Alliance, a coalition of AI companies, private equity firms, and labor unions advocating for “responsible” data center development.
Fifty-eight percent of those polled nationwide said they oppose building data centers in their state, according to results shared first with Semafor. But 54% said they would actually support data center construction if companies pledged to cover electricity costs, protect consumers from higher utility bills, and safeguard surrounding environmental resources; 31% still opposed data center construction outright.
The poll also found that seven in 10 voters worry that outright moratoriums on AI data centers could lead to China having more control over infrastructure that houses US information. Meanwhile, 64% said they’re concerned that bans will lead to jobs, investment, and economic growth going to other states instead.