National survey finds broad opposition to rapid data center expansion, echoing concerns raised in Oklahoma over electricity use, water demands and community impacts.
A new national poll suggests growing public skepticism about the rapid expansion of data centers, a finding that mirrors debates already unfolding in several Oklahoma communities.
According to a Reuters/Ipsos poll, only one-third of Americans support the rapid pace of data center construction tied to artificial intelligence, while nearly two-thirds disagree. The survey also found that 57% of respondents would oppose having a data center built in their own community.
The findings come as Oklahoma has become a target for major data center investments, with state and local leaders pursuing projects that promise billions of dollars in capital spending and economic development opportunities.
At the same time, data center proposals have sparked concerns in communities across the state.
Oklahoma City officials approved a temporary moratorium on new data center development through the end of 2026 while city leaders study potential regulations and impacts on infrastructure. In Edmond, city officials recently halted new applications while reconsidering zoning rules for data center projects.
Public concerns also have surfaced in communities including Piedmont, Sand Springs and Claremore, where residents and local leaders have questioned whether large-scale data centers provide enough long-term economic benefits to justify increased demands on electricity, water and other infrastructure.
Those concerns closely track the issues highlighted in the Reuters/Ipsos poll. The survey found that 77% of Americans are worried that artificial intelligence and the data centers supporting it could make electricity more expensive.
The Reuters/Ipsos survey of 4,531 Americans was conducted over six days and concluded June 8. Researchers noted that data centers consume enormous amounts of electricity and water while typically employing relatively small permanent workforces once construction is complete.
The disconnect between policymakers’ enthusiasm for attracting high-tech investments and public unease over their local impacts could become increasingly relevant in Oklahoma as communities weigh the promises of AI-driven development against concerns about infrastructure capacity, transparency and long-term costs.
