A state inspection found 62 natural-gas generators operating without required environmental permits.

Home to the biggest investors in AI infrastructure, the U.S. is experiencing a bipartisan backlash against facilities that critics say harm the environment and siphon away resources in order to fuel AI systems that many fear will imperil jobs and livelihoods.

Spending on data centers, the backbone of the artificial intelligence industry, has reached new highs in 2026. In response to the infrastructure boom, opposition to the facilities has exploded this year,

FORT MEADE, Florida — Top Democratic candidates in Florida are taking tough stances against data centers in their midterm campaigns. And with less than six weeks until the election, they’re courting Republican voters who also oppose what’s emerged as a potent campaign issue this cycle.

The backlash against data centers that is shaping elections and kitchen table debates across the country is now spilling onto Wall Street.

U.S. adults who say they have heard or read __ about data centers Note: Respondents who did not answer are not shown. Source: Survey of U.S. adults conducted July 20-Aug. 9, 2026. Fresh data delivered Saturday mornings Thank you for subscribing!

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger's data center plan restricts natural gas generation while demanding grid reliability, raising questions about the gap.