Texas gubernatorial candidate discusses data center policy

Democratic nominee for Texas governor, Gina Hinojosa, has lambasted Governor Greg Abbott's recent actions concerning data centers as a mere "political ploy" ahead of the midterm elections. Speaking on The Weeknight, Hinojosa argued that Abbott's executive order for a moratorium and an audit of up to 300 data center projects in Texas is insufficient, suggesting it's "basically auditing himself" and will likely revert after the election.

Hinojosa emphasized that Texans are deeply concerned about the proliferation of data centers, citing a recent Emerson poll showing 60% opposition to data centers being built near their communities. Key issues driving this opposition include rising electricity costs, strain on water supplies, noise, and the visual impact of these facilities. She also pointed out that many rural areas, lacking zoning regulations, are particularly vulnerable to unchecked data center development, which can strain local emergency services and potentially pose safety risks due to lax construction standards.

The Democratic nominee called for a special legislative session to enact robust laws that would provide real protections for Texans and give local officials a say in how and if data centers come to their communities. She asserted that the current "gold rush" of data centers, fueled by generous state tax breaks, disproportionately benefits corporate interests over the welfare of Texans, leading to higher costs and fewer benefits for residents.