A major disconnect defines American attitudes toward AI infrastructure: over 50% of Americans use AI chatbots regularly (Morning Consult, July), yet 70% oppose building data centers in their own communities (Gallup, May). This "not-in-my-backyard" stance—driven by concerns about power consumption, water usage, noise, and limited permanent job creation—has become a pivotal political battleground, forcing politicians from both parties to shift positions. Trump frames data center expansion as national security imperative against China while acknowledging PR challenges; governors like Shapiro (PA, Democrat) and Abbott (TX, Republican) have reversed pro-development stances by introducing stricter regulations.