Governors Address Data Center Impact Amidst Growing Public Opposition and Election Concerns
Governors in several U.S. states are increasingly scrutinizing and taking action against the proliferation of data centers, driven by public backlash and upcoming elections. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, announced that his administration will no longer prioritize data center projects for construction permits or tax exemptions unless they meet strict standards, including paying the full cost of electricity and demonstrating water conservation efforts. These projects must also secure local approval before state consideration. This move comes as Shapiro faces pressure from his Republican opponent, Stacy Garrity, and as communities across Pennsylvania resist proposed data centers. Similarly, Texas Governor Greg Abbott, a Republican, has ordered regulators to ensure data centers do not lead to higher electricity bills for Texans and plans to introduce legislation to impose regulations and potentially remove tax breaks for these facilities. Democratic challenger Gina Hinojosa has criticized Abb... 
