Introduction
Pennsylvania has introduced a public map enabling residents to track proposed data centers seeking environmental permits. This initiative comes as the expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure increasingly influences political discourse, especially in light of the upcoming 2026 U.S. midterm elections.
The Pennsylvania Data Center Permit Tracker
The Pennsylvania Data Center Permit Tracker, managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), displays data center projects that have been reported to the agency. This interactive tool lets residents monitor these projects’ progress through the environmental permitting process. Democratic Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration has implemented this as part of a strategy to address concerns about the AI industry’s impact on electricity costs, water supplies, environmental health, and local communities.
National Context
Data centers are becoming an election issue, with candidates expected to balance the economic benefits of AI investment against energy prices, environmental impacts, and development speed. Pennsylvania’s new tracker highlights a broader national debate about the costs and benefits of the data center boom.
Public Opinion
Opposition to local data centers is mounting. A Gallup survey in May revealed that approximately 70% of Americans oppose constructing an AI data center in their community, a greater number than those opposed to a nuclear plant. The Annenberg Public Policy Center reported a 61% opposition rate to local data centers as well, showing an increase of 12 percentage points earlier in the year.
Political Stances
Politicians are divided, with some focusing on attracting technology investments and competing with China, while others advocate for stricter regulations or increased scrutiny. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has expressed strong support for data centers. A Reuters/Ipsos poll indicated that 84% of voters view AI as a threat to American jobs, and 69% favor more stringent AI regulation. Additionally, 56% of registered voters support imposing limits on data center construction.
Newsweek’s AI Policy Scorecard
Newsweek’s AI Policy Scorecard evaluates members of Congress based on their stances on AI-related issues. The scorecard analyzes five areas: regulation and governance, data centers and energy, jobs and the economy, safety and privacy, and national security and China. The methodology incorporates congressional votes, bill sponsorship, and public statements, allowing voters to compare their representatives’ positions on AI infrastructure.