The latest town hall meeting in Pennsylvania saw a surge of frustration from locals as they expressed concerns over the rapid expansion of data centers.

About 225 people attended an online forum where 20 speakers highlighted issues such as rising electricity prices, water use and noise pollution. Governor Josh Shapiro, who has attempted to balance welcoming data centers with setting boundaries, faced criticism from attendees.

"This is a public trust and transparency issue," said Jennifer Dusart, a small business owner in Mechanicsburg near the state capital. "Too many Americans are finding out about these projects after decisions have been made."

The Data Center Proposal Tracker reports that Pennsylvania currently has nearly 60 proposed data centers. The support for such developments is divided; however, opposition is more pronounced when data centers are close to home.

"He is losing his base," said Kelly Donia, a registered Democrat who lives near a proposed center in East Whiteland Township. "I want him to hear this loud and clear."