In Tuesday’s November 3 elections, voters in at least 29 U.S. jurisdictions backed bans or restrictions on data-center development. Ballotpedia tracked 41 measures across 10 states: 28 were designed to curb development, while 13 would permit or support projects. In Ohio, all 10 charter measures backed by Conserve Ohio passed, and restrictions received roughly 78% to 82% support in several communities. Nearly 80% of voters in Joliet Township, Illinois, rejected an advisory proposal supporting AI data centers, while more than 60% of voters in Janesville, Wisconsin, approved a requirement for another public vote on a major project. Industry leaders warn that a broad moratorium could put U.S. AI investment at risk, while companies are increasing lobbying efforts and launching public-relations campaigns to reshape public perceptions.
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