Texas Gov. Greg Abbott says data centers deserve the backlash they're getting: 'They basically dug their own grave'

Gov.

Greg Abbott introduced new standards around data centers in Texas after community backlash.

Brandon Bell/Getty Images Texas Gov.

Greg Abbott said the backlash data centers are getting from Americans is deserved.

Abbott, who earlier supported data center development in the state, has since changed his tune.

Politicians are navigating the data center debate ahead of the November midterm elections.

The AI industry is reaping what it sows, as far as Texas Gov.

Greg Abbott is concerned.

Abbott said the sharp criticism Americans are lobbing at AI data centers is well-earned during an interview on ABC's "This Week" on Sunday.

"They basically dug their own grave for the problem that's been caused for them, and that's why they got the backlash they deserve," Abbott said.

Tech companies rely on data centers to power their AI products, but their messaging around them has fallen flat.

All across the country, Americans are rallying to fight against AI data centers , which can cost billions to build and span hundreds of acres.

Many are concerned about how the sprawling facilities will affect the environment, utility prices, water resources, and noise levels, to name a few.

Some just generally don't like AI.