BlackRock CEO Larry Fink stated that halting the development of AI data centers could trigger a U.S. recession. He emphasized that the current economic growth is heavily reliant on capital expenditures directed toward AI infrastructure.
Analysts project that AI-related capital spending could reach $1 trillion in 2027 and exceed $5 trillion cumulatively by 2030. Fink noted that BlackRock has engaged in discussions with chipmakers, including AMD and Broadcom, to support these efforts.
Despite the economic importance, public opposition to data centers is rising due to concerns over electricity and water consumption. Data from the Annenberg Public Policy Center shows that 61% of Americans now oppose new data centers in their areas.
Regulatory restrictions are already in place, with New York imposing a moratorium on certain permits and other regions limiting approvals. Data Center Watch reported that approximately $130 billion in projects were blocked or delayed in the first quarter of 2026.
The issue has become a factor in political campaigns, with some candidates opposing the construction while others receive support from super PACs funded by tech figures like Marc Andreessen and Greg Brockman.
