Pennsylvania Governor's Debate: Data centers in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro defended his executive order requiring data center developers to provide their own power, protect air and water, and obtain local community support. Republican treasurer and gubernatorial candidate Stacy Garrity called for a pause in development so communities can update zoning rules, but did not specify how long it should last.
During Pennsylvania’s only gubernatorial debate, Gov. Josh Shapiro and Treasurer Stacy Garrity discussed growing opposition to AI data center development across the state. The debate referenced packed public meetings, including one in Cumberland County, and a poll showing that 64% of likely Pennsylvania voters oppose data center construction. Shapiro cited concerns in Archbald near Scranton, where residents opposed a proposed facility near Eddie Stayback Park.
Shapiro said his executive order establishes strict safeguards requiring developers and technology companies to generate and pay for their own power, protect air and water, use local labor and benefits agreements, and secure support from the host community before state permitting proceeds. Garrity argued that Pennsylvania should pause data center development to give township supervisors, commissioners and local solicitors time to update zoning rules, citing farmland and community disputes in Union and Luzerne counties. She supported a pause but declined to set a specific duration, saying stakeholders could develop protections quickly.