Republicans and Democrats Spend Over $45 Million on Ads Targeting AI Data Centers

Campaign advertising firms report that more than $45 million has been spent on television and digital ads mentioning artificial-intelligence data centers since January, with spending split almost evenly between Republican and Democratic candidates. The ads argue that the facilities receive generous tax incentives, increase utility bills and should be more tightly regulated.

The number of ads referencing data centers has risen sharply, from a handful in January to over 160 in August, concentrating in competitive races such as those in Wisconsin, Michigan, Georgia and Ohio. A June Reuters/Ipsos poll found that 77 % of Americans worry about data centers driving up electricity costs, and two-thirds of Democrats and half of Republicans say they would oppose a center in their community.

Democratic ads, such as a $634,795 spot for Wisconsin gubernatorial candidate David Crowley, promise to lower costs and prevent “energy bills skyrocket” from AI facilities. Republican ads, including a $2.5 million campaign for Florida gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds, pledge to protect families from “utility rates” inflated by data centers and to implement a rate-payer protection plan.

Party officials note the issue offers a cross-party talking point. Michael Franz, co-director of the Wesleyan Media Project, said data centers let Democrats focus on environmental and affordability concerns while Republicans can criticize large corporations. A Republican operative, speaking anonymously, suggested the party’s stance varies but many favor requiring data centers to cover their own energy costs.

In Ohio, Democratic Senate candidate Sherrod Brown’s supporters have labeled Republican opponent Jon Husted “the face of data centers,” accusing him of granting billions in tax breaks and causing “electric bills to spike.” An internal memo from the National Republican Senatorial Committee described data centers as a “sleeper issue” for the election cycle. Husted, however, says his position has been consistent, emphasizing accountability through local taxes and hiring requirements.

Analysts note that while governors have the most direct authority over data-center permitting, the issue has gained national attention, influencing Senate and House races. Darrell M. West of the Brookings Institution said the federal government plays a limited role in permitting, leaving state officials to respond to voter opposition.

Overall, the bipartisan focus on data-center costs and tax incentives underscores a rare convergence of Republican and Democratic messaging in the 2024 campaign landscape.