On July 18, 2026, protests against the rapid expansion of data centers are scheduled to take place in at least 125 locations across the United States. This coordinated effort, organized by the grassroots group HumansFirst, aims to address concerns regarding the impact of data centers on local communities and infrastructure. The protests reflect growing opposition to what the group describes as unaccountable development and an infringement on personal liberties.
The protests come amid rising voter discontent over issues such as increased power bills, water resource diversion, and environmental pollution associated with data center projects. A June Reuters/Ipsos poll indicated that only one-third of Americans approve of the current pace of data center construction, with just 14% supporting the establishment of a data center in their community for AI projects.
HumansFirst co-founder Amy Kremer noted that the movement against data centers transcends political affiliations, likening it to the early days of the Tea Party movement. She emphasized the need for transparency in the development process and the protection of community resources and environmental health. Protests are expected to be most prominent in Texas, Georgia, California, Florida, and Pennsylvania, with local activists voicing concerns over the implications of data center operations on their communities.