Voters back tighter data center rules in the 2026 US midterms

The 2026 US midterms brought defeats for supporters of data center expansion and victories for candidates favoring moratoriums or tighter rules, The Verge and Wired report. An NBC News poll cited by The Verge found that 76 percent of voters opposed data centers in their communities. The Verge also reported that 33 of 45 local measures tracked at the time would restrict development; Ars Technica cited a separate Redbud Consulting tally saying 38 of 44 restrictive measures had passed. The counts differ between the two tallies.

Democrat Gina Hinojosa won the Texas governor’s race while supporting a statewide moratorium. According to Ars Technica, citing Bloomberg and Axios, her victory could delay projects in the state, although the impact will depend on permits and approvals already secured. The articles say developers are also likely to face greater scrutiny over water use, power infrastructure, tax incentives, noise, pollution, and costs for residents.