Data Centers Could Be Alabama’s Next Economic Powerhouse

As U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville campaigns to become Alabama’s next governor, one issue is quickly becoming part of the debate over Alabama’s economic future: data centers.

Tuberville has made it clear that he believes Alabama should compete for this rapidly expanding industry. In a recent interview, he said President Donald Trump has encouraged Alabama to welcome data centers while ensuring ordinary Alabamians are not forced to shoulder their costs.

The numbers help explain the enthusiasm.

According to research published by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, construction of a typical data center supported approximately 1,688 local workers, $77.7 million in wages and $243.5 million in economic activity throughout the local supply chain. The Chamber estimated construction generated roughly $9.9 million for state and local governments. Once operating, a typical facility supported 157 jobs, generated $32.5 million in annual local economic activity and produced another $1.1 million annually in state and local tax revenues. 

Alabama already has evidence that major technology companies are willing to invest here. Meta committed $1.5 billion to its Huntsville data-center campus and announced another $800 million AI-optimized facility in Montgomery. 

This isn’t simply about computer servers. Data centers can mean construction jobs, engineering and technology positions, expanded electrical infrastructure, increased demand for local contractors and suppliers, and a larger tax base capable of supporting roads, schools and public safety.

President Trump understands the larger picture.

Trump built his career in business before entering politics, and his administration has made expanding American AI and data-center infrastructure a national priority. In 2025, Trump signed an executive order directing the federal government to accelerate permitting for major data centers and related energy infrastructure. The White House described these investments as essential to America’s economic prosperity, national security and technological leadership. 

This is also about competing with China.

Artificial intelligence will help determine which nations dominate the next generation of technology, defense, medicine, manufacturing and commerce. The enormous computing capacity behind AI has to exist somewhere. Alabama should be asking why those billions of investment dollars shouldn’t come here.

Critics — including Democrats — are already attacking Tuberville over his support for data centers and calling for restrictions or moratoriums.  Questions about water, electricity and protecting residential ratepayers deserve answers, but those concerns should lead to smart conservative safeguards, not shutting the door on economic development. Everything has a downside, but this downside seems very low risk. 

Alabama didn’t become an automotive and aerospace powerhouse by being afraid of investment.

With responsible planning, data centers could represent the next chapter: billions in private investment, stronger infrastructure, new tax revenue and a foothold in America’s AI economy.

Trump recognizes that opportunity for America.

Tuberville recognizes it for Alabama.

And Alabama shouldn’t surrender the industries of tomorrow to other states — or other countries — because the political left automatically decides that whatever Trump supports, they must oppose.

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