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Data-center debate has one winning argument: sheer panic — and it will backfire

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When New York Gov. Kathy Hochul signed a one-year moratorium on new large-scale data centers via executive order, it became the nation’s first statewide ban.

It will likely be popular: Polls find widespread opposition to data centers, and the objections seem to be growing.

Around 70% oppose the construction of a new AI data center in their area, with 48% strongly opposed. Only 27% favor it.

Even in Texas, the energy-rich state with the most data centers, Republican Gov. Greg Abbott has called for a ban on new developments in rural areas.

The panic surrounding data centers is highly reminiscent of the panic surrounding hydraulic fracturing.

And like the fracking ban in New York, also based on junk science and scaremongering — not to mention, initially a “moratorium” — the policy will backfire.

Top NYC business group opposes Gov. Hochul’s one-year data center ban

Hochul backed NY data-center ban to satisfy DSA, other far-left Dems during re-election bid: critics

Fast Takes: DSA pins hopes on Michigan, Maine Dems distrust their voters and more

The economic case for data centers is indisputable: A single hyperscale facility brings in billions in capital investment, creates a slew of high-paying jobs from construction to engineering and ensures local governments are flush with tax revenue.

Big Tech bogeymen such as Microsoft, Google, Amazon and Meta upgrade local infrastructure and create secondary economies, often in struggling areas.

Long term,........

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