Trump weighs in on data center debate; Gov. Kehoe reacts
Former President Donald Trump commented on data center development, stating that communities opposing them risk becoming "backwards and poor." Missouri Lt. Governor Mike Kehoe reacted, emphasizing that data center development should be a community decision and highlighting the potential economic benefits.
Former President Donald Trump recently weighed in on the data center debate, asserting that communities that oppose such developments will "end up being backwards and poor." Missouri Lt. Governor Mike Kehoe, speaking with KSDK News, reacted to Trump's comments, acknowledging he had not seen them directly.
Kehoe stated that deciding on data center projects should be a community-level decision, not a state one, though he noted the state's general support for economic development. He echoed Trump's sentiment regarding the significant financial benefits these projects can bring, suggesting that many communities might not encounter similar opportunities again. Kehoe believes that if communities are willing to move forward, they could see benefits like property tax relief and support for school districts.
Addressing concerns about AI's impact on jobs, Kehoe drew parallels to historical industrial shifts, arguing that new technologies create new roles in service and maintenance. He expressed confidence that the IT sector would continue to grow and create additional jobs.