70% of Americans oppose building AI data centers, says Harry Enten

In the United States, a significant political issue has emerged regarding the construction of artificial intelligence (AI) data centers. CNN chief data analyst Harry Enten highlighted this issue during a segment on August 11, 2026, where he discussed a recent Fox News survey conducted from July 17 to July 20, 2026. The survey revealed that a substantial majority of registered voters, including 76% of Democrats and 60% of Republicans, oppose the establishment of AI data centers in their local areas. This opposition is notable as it reflects a rare consensus among voters from both major political parties.

Enten emphasized that the survey results indicate a clear and overwhelming sentiment against building AI data centers, with 70% of Americans expressing that AI development is viewed negatively. The survey also highlighted that 75% of rural voters and 63% of urban residents share this opposition. This widespread disapproval suggests that the topic of AI data centers has become a significant concern for voters, potentially impacting electoral outcomes in the upcoming midterm elections.

The context surrounding this issue includes President Donald Trump's strong advocacy for AI and data center construction, despite the growing backlash from the public. Trump has criticized states like New York for imposing restrictions on data center development, arguing that such facilities are crucial for economic growth and job creation. He has also made claims that data centers could provide substantial tax revenue and employment opportunities, likening their potential economic impact to that of oil.

However, the public's apprehension about AI and data centers stems from various concerns, including environmental impacts, energy consumption, and the potential effects on local communities. AI servers require significant amounts of water and energy, leading to increased costs and environmental strain. As a result, many voters are wary of the implications of AI technology on their communities and the economy. This growing opposition to AI data centers may pose electoral challenges for politicians who support their construction, as it appears to be a unifying issue that transcends party lines.