Texas Governor Greg Abbott has criticised AI data centre companies for moving too quickly into local communities without first winning public support, saying the industry has contributed to the backlash it is now facing.

Abbott, who was previously a strong supporter of data centre investment in Texas, said companies had effectively created the conditions for the opposition through their approach to new projects.

“They basically dug their own grave for the problem that's been caused for them, and that's why they got the backlash they deserve,” Abbott said in an interview with ABC's This Week.

The governor also described the criticism from American communities as “well-earned” and stressed that gaining local support would be essential for future developments.

Americans increasingly oppose new data centres

Public resistance to large data centres has grown as technology companies expand infrastructure to support artificial intelligence and other digital services.

A survey by the Annenberg Public Policy Center, conducted in June and July, found that around six in 10 Americans opposed construction of a new data centre in their community. That was higher than the figure recorded in March, when opposition was below half.

More than 500 jurisdictions across the US have reportedly slowed or halted large data centre projects. More than 150 localities passed bans in the previous month alone.

Communities have raised concerns about the amount of electricity required to operate the facilities, their environmental impact and the pressure they can place on local infrastructure. There are also concerns about whether the expansion of AI will reduce employment in some sectors.

Technology companies have responded by organising meetings with residents and local officials as they attempt to address concerns surrounding proposed facilities.

Abbott's position on Texas data centres has shifted

Abbott was once among the strongest political supporters of data centre development in Texas. In November last year, he described the state as the “epicenter of AI development” while announcing a Google-linked $40 billion investment involving three data centre campuses.

His position has since become more cautious.

Earlier this month, Abbott paused new data centre construction and said projects would need to undergo audits before proceeding. He has also asked regulators to examine data centres seeking connections to the Texas electricity grid.

The governor said last week that fewer than 10% of data centre companies had responded to a state request for information needed to estimate future electricity demand.

In June, Abbott directed state regulators to require data centres to cover the full cost of the electrical infrastructure needed for their operations. He also said he planned to phase out tax incentives for the sector.

AI infrastructure faces a new political test

Texas has become an important destination for technology companies seeking to expand AI infrastructure, including companies encouraged to relocate their operations to the state.

However, the growing resistance to data centres is creating a more complicated environment for future investment.

For technology companies, securing access to electricity and suitable land is only part of the challenge. Local acceptance is increasingly becoming a factor in whether large projects can move forward.

Abbott's latest comments reflect that shift in Texas, where political support for AI investment is increasingly being balanced against concerns from communities and the state's power infrastructure.