Georgia's Glynn County voters express strong opposition to data centers in primary ballot questions
Voters in Glynn County, Georgia, expressed significant opposition to data center expansion in a nonbinding primary ballot question. Concerns included environmental impact, water usage, and potential increases in electric bills. Despite differing question wording, opposition was strong across both Republican and Democratic ballots.
Voters in Glynn County, Georgia, participated in competitive primary elections, where a nonbinding local ballot question regarding data center development generated significant responses. First Coast News reported from Brunswick, Georgia, on Tuesday's primaries, highlighting voter concerns. While statewide races for governor, U.S. Senate, attorney general, and secretary of state were prominent, the local data center question prompted strong reactions across party lines.
Democratic voters were asked if electric bills should increase to support data center power demands, an idea largely opposed. Republican voters considered if lower property taxes would make them more supportive of data centers, which also met resistance. Voters like Marie Garmon and Alaina Sharpton expressed hesitation, with Sharpton specifically calling for more research into the environmental impact, water usage, and natural resources before further data center expansion.
The results of the nonbinding questions showed overwhelming opposition. On the Democratic ballot, over 98% rejected the idea of increasing electric bills for data centers. Even on the Republican ballot, which featured a more data center-friendly phrasing, 56% voted "No." Despite the advisory nature of the questions, voters emphasized the importance of their voices being heard, signaling clear public sentiment against data center expansion in Glynn County.