Midterm Ballot Measures: Abortion, Voting Rights, and Data Centers

Tuesday's midterm elections saw voters in 39 states and Washington, D.C. decide on 146 statewide ballot measures, covering a wide range of issues from reproductive rights to data centers.

Three states passed measures to preserve abortion access, while Idaho voted to preserve its existing abortion ban. In Missouri, voters rejected a Republican-led amendment that would have banned abortion with few exceptions.

Nevada and Virginia enshrined abortion rights in their constitutions, with Nevada doing so for the second election in a row, since state law requires a proposed constitutional amendment to pass twice. Virginia added protections for reproductive freedom, including the right to an abortion during the first two trimesters (and afterward in certain cases), as well as the right to contraception, fertility, postpartum care and more.

Several states approved changes to voting rules, including reinforcing U.S. citizenship requirements for voting and redistricting efforts. Virginia passed a measure automatically restoring voting rights to individuals who have completed their felony sentences.

LGBTQ rights were also on the ballot, with Virginia officially repealing its ban on gay marriage and adding language confirming that the commonwealth will recognize marriage between two adults regardless of their sex, gender or race. Vermont added an amendment guaranteeing equal protection under the law for race, ethnicity, sex, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or national origin.

States considered measures restricting transgender students' access to school sports and gender-affirming care, with Colorado passing both. Arizona passed a proposal requiring schools and athletic associations to restrict students, athletes and employees from using facilities — including restrooms, locker rooms, and other private spaces — that are not designated for their sex assigned at birth.

Taxes and state spending were also in focus, with Floridians approving a property tax cut, California voters weighing a one-time 5% tax on billionaires, and Tennessee banning a statewide property tax. Washington voters considered whether to repeal an income tax on individuals and households earning more than $1 million, which is scheduled to take effect in 2028. Early results indicate they want to keep that tax.

Gun control and state gun measures were also on the ballot, with Massachusetts keeping a strict firearm law and Idaho voting on a state gun selection. Data centers faced restrictions in 12 states, with Ohio voters rejecting rezoning areas from rural residential to light industrial for data center usage.

Candidates spent up to $40 million on ads about data centers this election cycle, reflecting widespread public concern over their impact on electricity costs. A June poll showed 77% of Americans are worried about data centers increasing energy costs.