Congressional candidate opposes data centers despite previous vote for tax break
Arizona congressional candidate Amish Shah opposes new data centers in his district because of water concerns, despite previously voting as a state legislator to extend data center tax incentives. Supporters and opponents debated the facilities’ effects on water supplies, electricity costs and tax revenue, including the proposed Project Blue development in Pima County.
Former Arizona state Rep. Amish Shah, a Democratic congressional candidate, is campaigning against new data centers in Arizona’s 1st Congressional District, citing water concerns. The article notes that Shah previously supported legislation extending the state’s data center tax incentive through 2033 and voted to eliminate a restriction on certain data center-related tax refunds.
Republican opponent Jay Feely has supported data center development if projects reduce pressure on local consumers and reuse water. Arizona Republican Party Chairman Sergio Arellano criticized Shah’s change in position, while Josh Heywood of Project 48 Arizona argued that data centers generate substantial tax revenue and use a small share of the state’s water. Heywood cited the planned Project Blue facility in Pima County, which is expected to use 15,000 to 20,000 gallons of water daily, and said proper zoning could address concerns about water, electricity and noise.