Why Everyone Hates AI Data Centers

The article discusses the growing backlash against AI data centers in the U.S., highlighting opposition from both left-wing and right-wing figures, including Bernie Sanders, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and Steve Bannon. It notes a 70% public opposition rate to local data-center construction and reports that 20 proposed centers were canceled in early 2026 due to community protests. The controversy centers on environmental, economic, and political impacts of AI infrastructure expansion.