The sudden backlash to data centers in Oregon

The nation remains captivated – or depending on your view horrified – by the artificial intelligence technology boom. And that boom wouldn’t be possible without the major infrastructure that powers AI. Yes, on the latest episode of OPB Politics Now, Dirk VanderHart, Courtney Sherwood and Holly Bartholomew discuss data centers, two words everyone is hearing a lot these days. Oregon, like many places, is seeing a fast-growing backlash at these facilities, and so today we’re going to talk about the politics, policies and environmental impact of data centers.

"OPB Politics Now" is a weekly podcast that takes a deep dive into the hottest political topics in Oregon and the Northwest. Every Friday, OPB’s political reporters and special guests offer in-depth analysis, discussion and insight into candidates, events and issues.