Voters pass data center bans and restrictions in at least 29 jurisdictions as AI backlash grows

Voters in at least 29 jurisdictions passed bans or restrictions on data centers on Tuesday, The Washington Post reports, and elected governor and Senate candidates pledging tougher rules on the facilities. Ohio led the way, with at least 14 of 18 municipalities voting for bans or limits, including 25-megawatt caps aimed at planned Amazon and Meta projects. Only a North Dakota measure went in the industry's favor, and an NBC exit poll found 56% of voters called AI and data centers a crucial or major factor in their vote for Congress.