The construction of AI data centers, enormous complexes that can draw enough electricity to power a medium-sized city and consume millions of gallons of water, have become a potent political flashpoint in the coming election season.

Needed to meet the massive computing demands of the generative AI boom, these data centers are welcomed by those who tout their potential to spur economic growth. But a populist backlash has pointed to sweetheart deals for Big Tech that are raising energy costs for ordinary citizens while delivering relatively few long-term jobs.

A Fortune article on nationwide campaign battles over AI and the future of energy called on Megan Mullin, faculty director of the UCLA Luskin Center for Innovation, for perspective.

“Candidates are lining up the coalition that they want to bring them into office,” said Mullin, a professor of public policy at UCLA Luskin. Staying on the good side of deep-pocketed tech companies with big AI ambitions could lead to campaign funding and endorsements down the line.