Country music legend Willie Nelson has joined Texas Governor Greg Abbott in voicing opposition to the proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI) data centers in rural areas of the state. Nelson, 93, shared a social media plea urging Americans to "fight against data centers invading our land," highlighting concerns about light pollution and water consumption impacting his hometown of Abbott, Texas.
Nelson reflected on his upbringing in Abbott, noting the ability to see stars at night and expressing concern that expanding industrial infrastructure threatens this natural landscape. "The last thing we need is a loud, water thieving, light polluting, data center anywhere near our town (or any others for that matter)," Nelson stated. He emphasized that the strength of rural America stems from its people, open spaces, local businesses, and connection to the land, not from large industrial footprints.
His remarks align with the mission of Farm Aid, a nonprofit he co-founded over four decades ago. Farm Aid has raised more than $90 million to support family farms and advocate against the loss of farmland. Nelson warned, "Whoever controls food and water, controls the masses. Let’s not allow our own demise or give up control over necessary resources in the U.S. and especially in Abbott."
Governor Abbott, speaking at a campaign stop in Bullard, called for a ban on data center developments in rural Texas. "We must prohibit them from building AI data centers in rural Texas neighborhoods," Abbott stated, according to The Texas Tribune. He outlined conditions for any future data center developments, demanding that they provide their own funding, power, and water, and implement water reuse strategies. Abbott also expressed a commitment to eliminating tax breaks for these facilities, insisting they be responsible for funding their own projects within the state.
Nelson's advocacy extends beyond environmental concerns; he highlighted the importance of protecting farmland, where essential food is grown, and safeguarding the livelihoods of small family farmers. The country music star's plea underscores a growing debate over the rapid expansion of data centers and their impact on rural communities and natural resources in Texas.