A recent poll conducted by Milltown Partners indicates that public opinion on data centers is divided. The survey, which included 6,872 registered voters from May 10 to May 20, shows that 38% of respondents support the construction of a data center near their home, while 34% oppose it. Additionally, 49% of those surveyed support a temporary moratorium on new data center construction, with only 16% opposing such a ban. Notably, only 8% of those who oppose data centers report knowing of one nearby.
The findings suggest that while there is some opposition to data centers, it is not predominantly from local residents. Many voters express concerns about the rapid pace of data center development and its implications, including costs and resource use. The poll highlights a growing unease about AI's impact on jobs, with figures like Steve Bannon and Bernie Sanders voicing their concerns about AI as a threat to workers.
Moreover, a Pew Research Center poll indicates that proximity to data centers does not significantly influence public opinion. The majority of planned data centers are located in rural areas, contrasting with the urban locations of most existing facilities. As tech companies face labor shortages in staffing these centers, some are exploring automation solutions, such as robots designed for complex environments. The survey results reflect a broader anxiety regarding the implications of AI and data centers in society.