ILLINOIS, (WAND) - A new statewide poll shows strong bipartisan support for the proposed POWER Act, aimed at increasing oversight of data centers across Illinois.
According to the survey, nearly 70 percent of likely 2026 voters support the legislation after hearing a brief description, with support climbing to 75 percent as voters learn more about the bill’s details. Backing spans across political parties, including Independents and Republicans, as well as voters outside the Chicagoland area.
The measure, supported by the Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition, would require data centers to be more accountable for their energy and water use, limit so-called backroom deals, and ensure facilities supply their own clean energy.
Polling also shows growing skepticism toward data centers, Big Tech, and artificial intelligence, with concerns largely driven by rising utility costs. More than half of respondents cited increasing energy bills as a top issue tied to data center expansion.
Advocates say the legislation would help protect consumers from higher costs while promoting environmental safeguards and public health protections.
The poll, conducted by Global Strategy Group from March 16–19 among 800 likely voters, has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.5 percentage points.
Supporters say the results send a clear message to lawmakers as the spring legislative session continues.
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