Jocelyn Benson calls for statewide moratorium on new data center construction

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, the Democratic nominee for governor, has proposed a statewide moratorium on new data center construction, vowing strict regulations to protect communities and the environment. In a video statement, Benson highlighted public concerns regarding data centers' impact on water supplies and the environment, promising to halt construction until rules are established. These proposed rules would require companies to negotiate with local communities, prevent them from using certain tax breaks and excessive water, mandate union labor for construction, and address rising electricity bills.

Republican Rep. John James, Benson's opponent in the gubernatorial race, has also advocated for state and local data center regulation, stating he would not allow new data centers without a plan to protect residents. However, James's stance has drawn scrutiny as he voted for a federal budget package in May 2025 that initially contained a provision to prohibit states and localities from regulating AI data centers. While this preemption clause was later removed by the Senate, reports indicate James voted against an amendment to strip out these provisions in committee, despite his campaign's assertion that his approach to data centers is clear: "no new data centers until we protect our people."