Where Wisconsin's governor candidates stand on data centers as undecided voters head to the polls
Democratic candidates for Wisconsin governor debated data center policies at a Milwaukee town hall, with voter concern about costs outweighing benefits. Key issues included calls for stronger oversight, environmental safeguards, and local control, with some candidates advocating for a moratorium and others for robust regulatory frameworks. Republican candidates also outlined principles for ending subsidies and ensuring local control.
Democratic candidates for Wisconsin governor convened at a Milwaukee town hall to discuss data center development, a contentious issue highlighted by a Marquette Law School poll showing voter concern over costs versus benefits. With many voters undecided, candidates presented varying approaches to regulating the industry.
State Rep. Francesca Hong advocated for a legislative moratorium on new data centers, arguing it would allow time to establish strong regulations, protect natural resources and workers, and ensure union labor. Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley opposed a moratorium, favoring a comprehensive regulatory framework that includes local government authority and mandates near 100% renewable energy use for data centers.
Former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes called for an end to public subsidies for data centers, insisting companies cover all costs and projects halt if communities object. State Sen. Kelda Roys proposed immediate executive action to increase oversight and legislation for tighter regulations, also opposing state subsidies. Joel Brennan supported a 100-day pause to set standards, emphasizing companies should bear all costs and environmental protections be enforced. Republican candidates Tom Tiffany and Andrew Manske, who did not attend, also voiced opposition to subsidies, advocated for local control, and stricter regulations, with Manske even supporting an outright ban.