Data centers forgot the consumer — and that could cost America the AI race

Data centers have gone from a niche policy issue to one of the most controversial topics of the midterm elections.

Fewer than 30% of Americans support a data center being built in their community and the reason why is simple; the industry forgot about consumers.

Data centers didn't suddenly appear with artificial intelligence.

They have long powered the internet, cloud computing, streaming, online shopping, banking, and countless other services Americans use every day.

But the emergence of AI changed their scale and visibility.

Companies began proposing larger facilities with new demands for electricity, water, and space, often in communities where residents had little idea what was coming until the project was already well underway.

The industry had plenty to say about investment, innovation, and America's race to lead the world in AI.

All true and all important, but it did so in a way that alienated the average person with jargon, tech-talk, and a "trust me" approach.

SILICON VALLEY IS LOSING THE DATA CENTER FIGHT, RISKING A REPEAT OF A CLASSIC FAILURE Most consumers have yet to hear a good reason why they personally benefit from data centers to begin with.

They hear data centers will power the technologies of the future, but that is a difficult sales pitch when families are worried that their electric bills could rise or their water supply could be strained.

As a result, consumers have stepped into the conversation and begun to make their concerns known, and politicians are being forced to respond.

TEXAS GOV.

GREG ABBOTT EFFECTIVELY PAUSES NEW DATA CENTER PROJECTS PENDING STATEWIDE GRID AUDIT In Texas, Gov.

Greg Abbott has issued a pause to audit all new data center projects to ensure they meet consumer demands.