Republican candidates propose limits on data center projects amid voter concerns
Michigan Senate nominee Mike Rogers and Ohio gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy announced measures to curb data center development, while Texas Governor Greg Abbott ordered an audit of existing facilities.
Republican contenders in several high-profile races are adopting policies aimed at addressing growing voter skepticism toward data-center projects. Former Rep. Mike Rogers, the GOP Senate nominee in Michigan, pledged support for a one-year moratorium on new data-center development. Ohio gubernatorial hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy released a proposal that would require future data centers to contribute to local taxes and utility costs. Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who previously welcomed such projects, has directed a state audit of existing data-center operations.
“There’s no getting around the fact this is a real issue,” Ramaswamy said.
Republican officials said they are aligning with President Donald Trump’s “Ratepayer Protection Pledge” and emphasizing local control as they navigate the issue. The party’s stance contrasts with the president’s continued promotion of the industry’s economic benefits and his outreach to technology leaders.
In a separate development, the Department of Homeland Security confirmed that Border Patrol agents detained Luis Manuel Aviles, the father of a sailor serving on the USS Abraham Lincoln, during a traffic stop. Aviles remains in ICE custody pending removal proceedings.
“He’s doing everything the right way,” Aviles’ stepdaughter told NBC News.
Analysts note that President Trump is also seeking a new summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, a move some view as an attempt to shift attention from ongoing challenges in the Middle East.