Data Centers Spark Dozens of Recall Petitions Against Local Officials
Summary
Communities in several U.S. states are trying to remove local officials through recall petitions because of decisions about building data centers. People are worried about noise, higher utility bills, water use, and power supply problems caused by these centers.Key Facts
- At least 58 local officials in seven states faced recall petitions in 2026 over data center projects.
- Concerns include noise pollution, strain on electrical grids, higher utility bills, and heavy water use.
- Environmental activist Erin Brockovich has collected over 8,000 community complaints about data centers.
- Some states are proposing rules to protect residents from negative impacts of data centers.
- Other states see data centers as important for the U.S. to lead in artificial intelligence (AI).
- Oklahoma, Missouri, Michigan, Texas, California, Arizona, and Wisconsin all have active or attempted recalls related to data centers.
- In some places, recall efforts failed due to not collecting enough signatures or legal issues.
- Local officials targeted often voted in favor of or approved data center development despite public concerns.
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