Politics1 min read

Data center double-down: Hassett says Blue Wave won't stop AI build-out

By · Published by Everything Blog

In short

The administration plans to advance its artificial intelligence infrastructure by focusing development in states governed by officials who welcome tech facilities. National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett confirmed that projects scheduled for the next several years will proceed unaffected by local election measures. This strategic pivot follows widespread ballot opposition, with Ballotpedia tracking voter-approved restrictions in at least 46 of 50 related midterm initiatives. President Donald Trump reaffirmed his backing for the sector on Friday, calling the technology super intelligence and promising federal partnerships with willing states.

Key points

  • National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett attributed a recent stock market decline…: National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett attributed a recent stock market decline to investor anxiety regarding upcoming data center policy changes.
  • Federal officials anticipate data center projects planned for the next couple of years wi…: Federal officials anticipate data center projects planned for the next couple of years will continue without disruption.
  • President Trump reiterated full federal support for the industry, pledging to collaborate…: President Trump reiterated full federal support for the industry, pledging to collaborate directly with states open to hosting tech facilities.

Sources checked by our analysis pipeline: 1

National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett said Friday he expects data center growth to continue as projected, despite the blue-wave election that saw voters overwhelmingly favor limiting the tech infrastructure buildout.

Hassett, on CNBC's "Squawk on the Street," acknowledged the dozens of measures on states' midterm ballots seeking to constrain data centers, a crucial part of President Donald Trump's push to win the global artificial intelligence race.

In at least 46 of the at least 50 such initiatives on ballots in 2026, majorities voted to restrict development of the facilities, according to Ballotpedia's tally.

"We respect the localities that decide that's what they want to do," Hassett said. "But America is a big place, and right now, the data centers scheduled over the next couple of years aren't affected by these ballot initiatives."

"And the stuff after that, you know, there's plenty of room in the U.S. for for data center growth to continue, as it was projected ahead of the election," he said.

Hassett said he expects data centers will continue to expand in states with more welcoming governors,…

Politics