Kansas Democratic Gubernatorial Nominee Calls for Statewide Data Center Moratorium
Cindy Holscher, Kansas's Democratic nominee for governor, has made the fight against data centers a central issue in her campaign. She proposes a statewide moratorium on new data centers, citing concerns about water and energy consumption leading to high utility bills and an affordability crisis. Holscher highlighted widespread community opposition to these facilities across Kansas.
Kansas state Senator Cindy Holscher secured the Democratic nomination for governor, defeating state lawmaker Ethan Corson, who was backed by outgoing Governor Laura Kelly. Holscher's victory, also featuring Overland Park Mayor Curt Skoog in the primary, is seen as a defeat for establishment Democrats. She will now challenge Republican Ty Masterson, president of the Kansas state Senate and endorsed by Donald Trump, in the November election.
A central issue in Holscher's campaign, which she discussed with Democracy Now!, is the impact of data centers. She has proposed a statewide moratorium on new data centers, particularly "hyperscale versions," citing their extensive water and energy usage. Holscher argues that these facilities contribute to skyrocketing utility bills, exacerbating the state's affordability crisis. She emphasized significant community opposition to data centers across Kansas, with citizens advocating for "guardrails" to protect resources and communities from perceived exploitation.
During a debate, Holscher acknowledged a prior vote for data center incentives but stated she has since listened to constituents and experts, vowing to implement protective measures. The article also covered other political stances, including her celebration of the defeat of a ballot measure regarding state Supreme Court elections—which she viewed as a "backdoor attempt" to undermine abortion rights and public education—and her opposition to the for-profit prison company CoreCivic's activities in Leavenworth.