Data center opposition becomes central issue in Maine Senate race

Data center expansion has become a major issue in Maine’s Senate race, amid residents’ concerns about utility costs, water use, and climate impacts. A UMass Lowell and YouGov poll found that 76 percent of respondents opposed building a data center in their community, while 58 percent were strongly opposed.

The state Legislature passed a moratorium, but Gov. Janet Mills vetoed it; towns have also adopted temporary suspensions or put expansion to a vote. According to The Verge, the race is projected to draw $81 million in Democratic spending and $114 million in Republican spending. Its outcome could help determine control of the Senate and influence federal policy on data centers and artificial intelligence.