Gallup poll: Americans oppose nearby AI data centers over nuclear plants
71% of americans oppose building ai data centers near their homes, exceeding opposition to nuclear power plants, which signals potential local resistance to us ai infrastructure expansion.
71% of americans oppose constructing ai data centers in their neighborhoods, a figure surpassing the 53% who object to nuclear power plants, according to a new gallup survey. opponents cite high water and energy usage, pollution, and increased utility bills, while supporters highlight job creation and tax revenue. the poll identifies a stark political divide, with 56% of democrats strongly opposed compared to 39% of republicans, and strongest resistance in the midwest and south. this growing local backlash poses a threat to the massive infrastructure buildout needed to support generative ai, potentially turning into a campaign issue. the sentiment is already influencing legislation, such as senator bernie sanders' artificial intelligence data center moratorium act introduced in march 2026.