Trump's Terms The rise of data centers is becoming a midterm issue for voters
Jan 26, 2026
Deepa Shivaram, NPR White House correspondent who reported from Hanover, Virginia, explores the rising spread of data centers. She covers local pushback over land use and energy costs. She outlines political divides and how industry pledges and White House attention are shaping voter concerns.
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Local Pushback In Hanover, Virginia
- Hanover residents led protests against four proposed data centers to protect rural land and local character.
- Jennifer Corpus organized rallies and urged local leaders to reject the projects to keep the county from becoming known for data centers.
Virginia's Data Center Concentration Raises Costs
- Virginia has more data centers than anywhere in the world, driving statewide energy concerns and local opposition.
- An independent review warned Virginians could pay up to $37 more per month in energy costs by 2040 because of these facilities.
Bipartisan Backlash Driven By Local Anxiety
- Pushback against data centers spans the political spectrum and reflects broader public anxiety about rapid change.
- Brendan Steinhauser says people ask, 'What is happening? Why is this happening so fast? Why didn't I get a say in this?'