Wisconsin gubernatorial candidates debate data center and AI regulation

An editorial from The Cap Times criticizes Wisconsin politician Tom Tiffany, a Republican gubernatorial candidate, for his record on AI and data center regulation, urging voters not to trust him. The article highlights Tiffany's 2026 vote for a version of a bill that sought to impose a decade-long federal moratorium on state AI laws, a move described by Tech Policy Press as a significant intervention to prevent regulation of corporate AI projects. Amba Kak, former senior advisor on AI to the Federal Trade Commission, warned Congress against this approach, emphasizing the need to protect the public from potential harms.

In contrast, Democratic rival and Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley presents a platform that prioritizes community control over data center development. Crowley advocates for local communities to decide on data center presence, banning NDAs, requiring 100% renewable energy, mandating developers cover infrastructure and grid upgrade costs, and ensuring union labor with community benefit agreements. He also stresses the protection of local water and the environment. Francesca Hong, who made AI regulation a core issue in the gubernatorial campaign, supports Crowley and has proposed a temporary statewide moratorium on new data center construction.

The editorial further notes Tiffany's historical financial ties to energy and utility industries, including Chevron, WEC Energy Group, Xcel, and Alliant, which stand to benefit from data center expansion. It argues that Tiffany's actions align with the interests of “tech bro” oligarchs, while Crowley and Hong are committed to prioritizing Wisconsin workers and addressing the societal and environmental impacts of AI and data centers. Crowley emphasized in an interview with the Cap Times editorial board that builders must utilize union labor and ensure project labor agreements.