Data centers have become an issue in Ohio’s elections, putting the facilities into the political debate. But polling suggests that their prominence as a subject of controversy does not necessarily make them a leading priority for voters.

In a Suffolk University poll conducted in late September, 2.6% of respondents identified data centers as their most important issue. That finding provides a limited measure of the subject’s electoral significance: it records how many respondents put data centers first, rather than how many considered them important alongside other concerns.

The distinction matters when assessing the political consequences of opposition to data centers. The reported unpopularity of the facilities and the small share naming them as their foremost concern describe different aspects of public opinion. The figure alone does not establish whether the issue will influence voters’ choices, nor does it measure support for particular projects.

Read more: Warren warns of food insecurity as advocates seek delay to SNAP changes

Editor’s note: The supplied excerpt does not detail community consequences or competing positions. It also provides no specifics about projects, candidates, local effects or next steps.