Questions about data center supporters in Prince George's County
Debate over data center developments in Prince George's County, Maryland, is prompting questions about organized support groups and lobbying efforts. This comes after the county adopted a moratorium on data centers, with residents receiving text messages encouraging support for development.
The debate surrounding data centers in Prince George's County, Maryland, has led to questions about who is influencing the public conversation. WUSA9 reported on organized groups showing up at rallies and council meetings, dressed in matching t-shirts and hats, advocating for the massive developments.
Taylor Frazier McCollum, who has been rallying against data centers in the county, expressed concern about the organized opposition, stating, "We're trying to get to the bottom of who sent them and where they came from." She noted that these supporters, who claim to have formed organically, often have new matching attire and some may not be from the county itself. A man seen with one such group was later spotted at a council meeting with another group.
Adding to the controversy, Prince George's County residents reported receiving text messages encouraging support for data centers after the county adopted a moratorium on July 7th. WUSA9 attempted to trace the texts, finding a hyperlink to a call-to-action website and a callback number linked to a telecommunications company in Cumberland, Maryland.
Michael Heaney, a lecturer in politics at the University of Glasgow, explained that while rallying support for controversial projects is not uncommon or illegal, it creates a challenge for communities and leaders to identify the true interests behind such mobilization. WUSA9 confirmed that at least two individuals testifying in favor of data centers at council meetings have listed county addresses, but many questions remain regarding the funding and origin of the organized support and the mass text messages.