The Data Center Backlash: How Server Farms Became a Political Flashpoint
A 2026 feature in WIRED explores the growing political resistance to data centers across the United States, referencing figures such as the Unabomber, Steve Bannon's technology advisor, and Senator Bernie Sanders. It addresses worries regarding environmental degradation, energy usage, and land allocation, showcasing widespread opposition. The Unabomber's manifesto denounces infrastructure, while Bannon's advisor presents a right-wing populist perspective, and Sanders emphasizes corporate influence and environmental equity. This backlash is reshaping policy discussions and community opposition, highlighting economic conflicts as data centers create jobs and generate tax income but also deplete local resources. The article, titled "How Data Centers Broke American Politics," chronicles the transformation of data centers from innocuous to contentious.
Key facts
- The article is from WIRED and published in 2026.
- It discusses the political backlash against data centers in the United States.
- Figures mentioned include the Unabomber, Steve Bannon's tech advisor, and Bernie Sanders.
- The Unabomber's anti-technology manifesto is referenced.
- Steve Bannon's tech advisor represents a right-wing populist perspective.
- Bernie Sanders offers a progressive critique focusing on corporate interests and environmental justice.
- The backlash has influenced policy debates and electoral politics.
- There are instances of community resistance and legislative efforts to regulate data centers.
- Data centers bring jobs and tax revenue but also strain local resources.
- The article argues that data centers have become a symbol of political divisions over technology, corporate power, and environmental stewardship.
Entities
Institutions
- WIRED
- Steve Bannon's tech advisor (unnamed)
Locations
- United States
Sources
- Wired AI —