President Donald Trump has called on state governments across the United States to accelerate the construction of AI data centers, emphasizing that the artificial intelligence industry will bring massive economic benefits and pledging full federal support for participating states.
Writing on his social media platform Truth Social on the 6th, Trump stated, “As president, I am 100% in favor of Super Intelligence and will work with the various states of America that want to get rich from it.” He added, “They are like gold, and only foolish leaders reject the wealth they will bring.”
Super intelligence refers to AI that surpasses human intellectual capabilities, requiring large-scale data centers and substantial power supply infrastructure to develop and operate.
Rising Opposition and Ballot Measures
Trump’s remarks come amid a nationwide surge in public opposition to data center construction.
According to the election information analytics firm Ballotpedia, out of 41 data center-related ballot measures across 10 states in the midterm elections on the 3rd, 27 measures aimed at restricting or opposing construction were approved.
In California, data center developments have also hit roadblocks. Voters in Alhambra, Los Angeles County, approved a ballot measure banning data center construction. Previously, Governor Gavin Newsom signed seven bills in September strengthening regulations on the electricity and water usage of data centers.
Concerns Over Electricity and Water Supply
The primary reasons residents oppose data center construction are growing concerns over rising electricity bills and potential water shortages. Because large-scale facilities consume immense amounts of power and cooling water, residents worry about increased living expenses and strains on local utility supplies.
Policy shifts are also expected in Texas, a major hub for data center development. In the gubernatorial race, Democratic candidate Gina Hinojosa, who defeated incumbent Republican Governor Greg Abbott, has vowed to halt approvals for new data centers until adequate resident protection measures are established.
Future Outlook and Investment Scale
According to market research firm SemiAnalysis, Texas is projected to account for about 41% of America’s new data center capacity by 2028.
Furthermore, potential impacts on data center expansion plans are being raised in states like Ohio, Georgia, and Arizonaβall major AI industry hubsβfollowing Democratic victories in their respective gubernatorial races.
Total investments in AI-based infrastructure currently being pursued nationwide are estimated at approximately $10 trillion.
