Texas Governor Abbott pauses data centre expansion amid growing public backlash

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has turned critical of AI data centre companies over their rapid expansion across the state. He contends that these firms failed to secure local community backing before moving forward with large-scale projects. Public opposition to new data centres has been mounting significantly across the United States, prompting several jurisdictions to slow or halt construction. Abbott has responded by pausing new data centre construction in Texas and ordering regulatory reviews. The move signals a notable shift in stance even as figures like Elon Musk continue to champion Texas as a leading technology hub.