Public sentiment toward AI and data centers shows strong opposition

New poll data released by the New York Times and Siena University highlights widespread public opposition to AI and data centers. Among 1,503 likely voters surveyed in early September, 61 percent expressed opposition to constructing data centers to power AI technology, with only 14 percent strongly supporting the initiative. The survey, conducted ahead of recent discussions on AI safety, revealed a near-even split among 2024 Donald Trump voters, with 49 percent supporting and 45 percent opposing. Voters who supported Kamala Harris or did not vote in the 2024 election leaned more toward opposition. The findings underscore growing political and public concerns about the impact of AI and data center development.