The Trump administrations data center push could open the door for new forever chemicals
GristDEC 2025
Michigan Data Center Proposals Spark Public Opposition, Energy Concerns
Do data centers drive economic growth and jobs, or do they burden communities with higher bills and environmental damage?
Above: Data cabinets in a data hall at a NextDC Ltd. data center in Sydney, on Dec. 8, 2025. Image credit: Brent Lewin/Bloomberg/Getty Image
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
Data centers are quickly becoming the critical infrastructure for American technological leadership and economic growth. The facilities generate substantial tax revenue without burdening local schools or socioeconomic infrastructure, while creating construction jobs and permanent employment opportunities that can revitalize communities left behind by manufacturing decline.
Establishment-critical narrative
The data center boom threatens Americans with skyrocketing utility bills, unsustainable water consumption and worsening climate damage, all while destroying American jobs through AI automation. Bipartisan grassroots opposition is mounting nationwide, as communities recognize these facilities deliver zero benefits to residents who end up paying the price through higher costs and environmental harm.
Metaculus Prediction
Editor's Note
This story currently has limited reporting from right-leaning sources. We will continue to monitor all major outlets and update our coverage as additional perspectives become available.
Go Deeper
Establishment split
CRITICAL
PRO
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© 2026 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 6.18.0
© 2026 Improve the News Foundation.
All rights reserved.
Version 6.18.0