US Voters Launch Recall Drives in 7 States Over $130 Billion Datacenter Push
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Jul 3
US Voters Launch Recall Drives in 7 States Over $130 Billion Datacenter Push
2 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jul 3
Summary
Recall petitions have spread across at least seven states in May and June as voters challenge local officials over datacenter proposals they say were advanced with too little public disclosure.
Lenox Township, Michigan, became a flashpoint after residents uncovered emails showing developers sought officials’ backing despite public denials, then moved to recall four trustees after a datacenter moratorium lapsed.
The backlash is being driven by secrecy and resource fears: researchers found 80% of 31 Virginia localities tied to datacenters had NDAs, while a typical facility can use 300,000 gallons of water a day.
Opposition is already slowing projects nationwide, with at least 75 datacenter developments worth about $130 billion blocked or delayed in the first quarter of 2026—roughly matching all of 2025.
The movement has united Republicans and Democrats even as the Trump administration pushes faster datacenter construction, underscoring widening anxiety over AI-linked energy, water and local cost burdens.
Why are secret deals with developers turning local residents against their own elected officials?
Can green technology truly solve the data center energy crisis, or is it just a fantasy?
The Great Data Center Backlash of 2026: $98 Billion in Projects Delayed as Local and State Opposition Surges
Overview
In early 2026, the United States saw a dramatic rise in public and legislative opposition to data center construction. This backlash was fueled by concerns over high resource consumption, environmental impact, and a lack of transparency from developers. Local communities took action, such as recall efforts against officials who supported controversial projects, like the $1 billion data center in Yukon, Oklahoma. Here, community leaders faced accountability as residents questioned water usage and decision-making processes. In response, states quickly introduced new laws and executive actions to address these concerns, signaling a nationwide shift toward stricter oversight and greater community involvement in data center development.