Can the United States Win the AI Race if Americans Oppose Data Centers?

As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly central to U.S. economic competitiveness and national security, one reality is becoming clear: AI leadership depends on the ability to build the physical infrastructure that powers it. But as AI infrastructure expands into more communities, public attitudes are shifting. Recent polling shows growing opposition to nearby data center development across both parties, raising difficult questions about whether the United States can build the infrastructure needed to achieve its AI ambitions.

What is driving this backlash? Are concerns primarily about electricity prices, water use, land use, and quality of life, or do they reflect broader skepticism toward AI and large technology companies? Which concerns matter most to the public, and what tradeoffs are they willing to accept? If public opposition continues to grow, what will that mean for America's ability to compete in AI—and is there a politically viable path to expanding AI infrastructure while maintaining public support?

Join ITIF for a discussion on what new polling reveals about Americans' views on data centers and the implications for U.S. AI policy. Panelists will unpack the motivations behind public opinion, examine what widespread resistance to new data center development could mean for America's AI competitiveness, and explore policy approaches that address legitimate community concerns without sacrificing the infrastructure needed to support long-term U.S. leadership in AI.

Questions for the speakers? Ask on Slido.