Masterson, Holscher Split on Kansas Data Center Policy
Kansas gubernatorial candidates Ty Masterson and Cindy Holscher are divided on data center policy ahead of the November election. Masterson continues to support tax incentives for developers, while Holscher now advocates for a statewide moratorium and stricter regulations. This shift comes amid growing public opposition to data center development in the state.
Kansas gubernatorial candidates Republican Ty Masterson and Democrat Cindy Holscher hold opposing views on data center development, a key issue in the upcoming November election. Both initially supported Senate Bill 98, legislation that provided tax incentives for data center developers. However, Holscher has since changed her stance, now advocating for a statewide moratorium and stronger regulatory "guardrails" for the industry.
Masterson, whose campaign declined to answer questions, reiterated his position that data center construction should occur "on our terms" and that the final decision rests with local communities. In contrast, Holscher's pivot is in response to public sentiment, exemplified by Rebecca Davis from Tonganoxie, who expressed concerns about data centers impeding her quality of life. Social media feedback from groups like the Joco Miami County Facebook group also highlighted significant public opposition, with one viewer stating, "Seven out of 10 Americans don't want to live by a mega data center," underscoring the importance of addressing community concerns.