Data Centers Face Political Heat in Midterms

Candidates from the Senate to governors’ mansions are racing to be the most anti‑data‑center. The tactic has turned data centers into a wedge issue in races across the United States.

WIRED reports that the anti‑data‑center stance has become a litmus test for credibility on climate and land‑use policy. Candidates promise tighter zoning, higher fees, or outright bans on new facilities. The promises …

The political calculus is simple. Data centers consume megawatts of power and draw water for cooling. In states where renewable targets are already tight, a new megawatt can tip the balance. Campaign ads now feature a…