AI data centers become a campaign trail flashpoint

AI data centers have become a political and public relations flashpoint as voters fear higher electricity bills and job impacts, triggering satirical ads and a wave of state rules. The NRSC warns the issue could shape Senate races; Ohio and Pennsylvania push guardrails and infrastructure costs; New York imposes a moratorium to craft rules; Texas acts to require electrical upgrades; OpenAI, Microsoft, and Nvidia pledge to cover energy costs and support local jobs, but public trust remains low.