Trump urges data center firms to pay community dividends

President Donald Trump has called on data center companies to distribute "dividends" to local communities to avoid conflicts over the projects, which are becoming a major topic in the upcoming November 3 midterm elections. Trump made the suggestion on his social media platform, Truth Social, emphasizing that financial agreements have helped turn previously unpopular data center projects into community favorites.

AI growth drives data center expansion

Trump has long supported the construction of data centers to maintain American leadership in artificial intelligence. The number of data centers has grown sharply since 2022, especially after the launch of ChatGPT, a popular AI chatbot. Cleanview, an energy data company, reported that 180 new data center buildings were completed in 2025, with 88 more completed this year in 22 states.

Community conflicts over data centers rise

Conflicts over data centers have increased across the United States, becoming a major issue in the upcoming midterm elections. These projects are causing tensions, particularly over rising energy costs. On one of the largest electricity networks in the country, serving 67 million households, the demand from data centers has led to a 174% increase in total costs. Local groups also oppose the projects due to concerns about water use, air pollution, noise, and tax loopholes.

Texas resident faces noise from data center

In Texas, one of the states most affected by data center growth, Melissa Burnett has described the noise and vibrations from a nearby data center as "like a freight train approaching." Burnett shared her experience with AFP, highlighting the local impact of these industrial projects.

Trump supports data center growth for AI leadership

Despite the growing opposition, Trump has backed the expansion of data centers, arguing that slowing AI development could cost the U.S. its strategic advantage over China. His administration has allowed companies to operate freely, with seven major firms agreeing in April to offset their increased energy use by investing in energy infrastructure.

Data center regulation becomes election issue

Driven by local frustrations, the need for better regulation of data center construction is becoming a key topic in many elections. In over 20 races across 18 states, candidates from both major parties have referenced data centers in their television advertisements, according to marketing data cited by American media outlets in late August.