Data center backlash grows: at least 15 states weigh moratoriums as Chicago and Texas leaders call for pauses
AINowInstitute · x · 2026-09-04
Opposition to data centers is spreading alongside a broader AI backlash.
- Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson issued an executive order tightening oversight and urged a moratorium on new data centers
- Texas Gov. Greg Abbott called for auditing all proposed data centers before grid connection
- Both cite water usage, noise pollution, and rising energy costs
- Legislators in at least 15 states have proposed moratoriums; dozens of jurisdictions have adopted or debated them
- AI Now's Alli Finn argues Big Tech has rigged the game so communities foot the bill whether or not the AI bubble pops
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