President Donald Trump urged data center operators to pay communities and residents a "dividend" to build support for new projects, in a move aimed at addressing local concerns ahead of the November midterm elections.
In a Truth Social post on Wednesday, Trump wrote that companies should "pay the community, and/or individuals within the community, a ‘dividend’" if they want their facilities to gain popularity. He added that deals struck with locals have turned opposition into support and called on operators to "MAKE DEALS, and get them built!!! GREAT FOR THE U.S.A."
Trump also stated that new and large Super Intelligence data centers are mandated to generate their own electricity and sell or give any excess back to the local community or grid, which he said would prevent price increases and could lead to decreases.
The comments come as data center projects face growing resistance over their demands for electricity and water, which have raised utility bills and sparked environmental worries in multiple states. Polls indicate widespread opposition, and the issue has emerged as a flashpoint in several midterm races, with some Republican candidates also voicing reservations.
Trump has consistently backed expanded Super Intelligence infrastructure for its economic potential, including jobs and investment. His latest remarks represent a tactical shift toward community benefits while maintaining the push for rapid development. Several companies have already explored local investments or discounts to ease tensions.
Midterm voting takes place on November 3. Trump has highlighted economic gains from such projects as a key advantage for Republican candidates.
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