Data Center rally-goers hope for full shutdown
Data center opponents rallied at the Pennsylvania Capitol in Harrisburg, urging Gov. Josh Shapiro to impose a statewide moratorium and halt further development. Supporters and candidates acknowledged the industry’s economic benefits while calling for stronger statewide rules to protect communities and the environment.
Opponents of data center development gathered at the Pennsylvania Capitol in Harrisburg and called on Gov. Josh Shapiro to enact a statewide moratorium. Rally participants cited concerns about environmental impacts, community disruption and the influence of artificial intelligence companies, while criticizing the governor’s handling of the issue.
Candidates Nathan Wood and Jessica St. Clair said data centers provide important economic and technological benefits but should not be allowed to disrupt communities. The Data Center Coalition highlighted the industry’s jobs, economic output and tax contributions in Pennsylvania, while Shapiro’s office said the administration has established strict requirements intended to protect air, water, utility customers and local communities.