The surge in data center development, driven by the AI boom, is encountering significant resistance from local and state governments across the United States and Latin America. As environmental concerns mount, communities are uniting against the expansion of these energy-intensive facilities. Recent studies reveal a notable shift in public opinion, with many feeling misled by industry promises. Activists are calling for greater transparency in sprawling data center projects and encouraging local governments to negotiate better terms. This backlash is evident in the political arena as election results indicate a growing opposition to data centers, impacting those allied with the industry. As cities begin to push back, the debate surrounding the balance of benefits and drawbacks of data center development is intensifying.