Voters know what the next big issue is. They don’t know how they feel about it.

Politico

by By Erin Doherty and Lisa Kashinsky

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Data centers are quickly emerging as a significant political issue in the United States, with neither major party fully understanding how to position themselves on the topic. A recent POLITICO Poll reveals that while Americans are largely unaware of data centers and their implications, they recognize their growing importance and expect them to become a campaign issue within the next five years. Republicans currently hold an edge, with pluralities of both party voters supporting data center construction, particularly among MAGA Republicans. However, public opinion remains fluid, presenting both opportunities and risks for politicians seeking to leverage this emerging issue. The poll highlights that voters are still forming their views on data centers, driven by concerns over water supply, electricity bills, and environmental impacts. Democrats have shown early success in campaigns by emphasizing the need for regulation, as seen in recent gubernatorial elections where candidates won by promising stricter oversight of data center energy consumption. Conversely, Republicans, particularly under President Donald Trump’s influence, have leaned into supporting data center expansion as part of a broader push for artificial intelligence dominance. The issue has sparked intraparty divisions, with progressives and conservatives disagreeing on regulatory approaches. Governors from both parties are now racing to establish regulations for the booming industry, which has historically outpaced oversight. For example, conservative Florida Governor Ron DeSantis introduced consumer protections, while moderate Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro proposed safeguards for ratepayers. As data centers continue to expand, their impact on household costs and local resources remains a top concern for voters. The POLITICO Poll underscores that this issue is still evolving, with political implications that could shape future campaigns. Whether candidates choose to embrace or oppose data center growth will likely influence voter sentiment, making it a key battleground in the coming years.

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Originally published on Politico on 2/22/2026