Opposition to Data Centers Emerges as Sensitive Issue in US Midterm Elections; Pennsylvania Enacts Nation's Strictest Rules

Rising electricity prices driven by AI data centers have fueled public opposition and become a central issue in the US midterm elections, adding extra risks for AI companies. On Tuesday, Pennsylvania issued regulations requiring data centers to secure their own power supply. Bank of America noted that a strong showing by Republicans in November's midterm elections could push stocks higher, while a Democratic takeover of the Senate and a win in the Texas governor's race could see US stocks fall more than 10% next year.