Shapiro’s data center rules impact battleground Congressional races
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro signed an executive order imposing "strictest guardrails" on data center development, making it a key issue in upcoming congressional races. Candidates are divided along party lines, reflecting broader public opposition to data centers due to concerns over utility costs, environmental impact, and local control. Polls indicate strong statewide opposition to data center construction in Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro recently signed an executive order aiming to implement the "strictest guardrails in the nation" on data center development, citing concerns over "data center speculators" filling the state. This move has thrust data center policy into the spotlight for the 2026 midterm elections, particularly in several battleground congressional districts across Pennsylvania.
Reactions to Shapiro's order largely followed party lines. U.S. Representative Rob Bresnahan (R-8, Dallas Twp.) expressed agreement, emphasizing local control, while his challenger, Scranton Mayor Paige Gebhardt Cognetti (D), celebrated the order, stating that Northeast Pennsylvania should not be exploited by developers and advocating for local communities to decide. U.S. Representative Ryan Mackenzie (R-7) criticized Shapiro's previous stance, while his Democratic challenger Bob Brooks supported the governor, though noted he sees data centers as a local issue. U.S. Representative Scott Perry (R-10) accused Shapiro of flip-flopping, a sentiment echoed by U.S. Representative Glenn 'GT' Thompson (R-Centre). In contrast, Democratic challenger Janelle Stelson credited Shapiro, and U.S. Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (R-1, Bucks County) also supported the order, focusing on residents' needs. Bucks County Commissioner Bob Harvie (D), challenging Fitzpatrick, lauded Shapiro's decision and called for federal regulations.
The executive order aims to address concerns over potential increases in utility costs, risks to air and water quality, a lack of transparency from developers, and the necessity of local community decision-making. Public opinion polls reveal significant statewide opposition: a New York Times/Philadelphia Inquirer/Siena poll found 62% opposed to data center construction, and a Franklin & Marshall College poll showed 79% opposition to a data center being built in their community.