The rapid rise of data centres in Arizona has become a flashpoint as U.S. midterm elections loom. Republicans, led by former President Trump, tout the jobs and technological bragging rights the sector promises.
Arizona’s attorney‑general, on the other hand, has called for a pause on new approvals amid worries over water use and the strain these facilities place on local power grids. Residents living near existing data centres report increased heat and noise, raising questions about the true cost of the AI boom.
For a closer look, watch the accompanying BBC video and read more about how the data‑centre surge is reshaping Arizona’s landscape.
