Texans Turn Against Local Data Centers, Poll Shows

A UT poll of 1,200 registered voters finds a majority (56%) oppose building data centers in their communities, with opposition strongest in rural areas (62%); only 29% support. Democrats and independents are more opposed than Republicans. Despite Texas becoming the top U.S. data-center market, most planned facilities sit in rural counties with limited regulation. Gov. Greg Abbott has urged tighter energy/water rules and repeal of the data-center sales-tax exemption, and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick is directing committees to study regulation. Voters also express concern about AI's impact on the economy (49% negative, 29% positive), signaling potential action by lawmakers next session.