Bridge Michigan: Fact Check -- John James, Jocelyn Benson Debate Data Centers, Tariffs, More
Michigan gubernatorial candidate John James said a statewide data center moratorium would not be pursued if he is elected, arguing that local governments should decide whether to approve facilities. Jocelyn Benson criticized James over his congressional record on local control and questioned potential financial ties involving her family and the Saline data center, which is being developed with Related Companies.
During a televised debate in Grand Rapids, Republican gubernatorial nominee John James said he no longer supports a statewide moratorium on data centers if elected, saying decisions should be made by local governments rather than Lansing. His position marked a shift from an earlier campaign statement supporting a moratorium until standards for local control, electricity use and environmental protections were established.
Democratic nominee Jocelyn Benson accused James of voting to limit local authority over data centers, though Bridge Michigan found he had not voted for standalone data center restrictions. The debate also addressed the Saline data center, where Benson’s husband previously worked for Related Companies; Benson denied that her family profited from the project, while financial disclosures showed her husband received compensation from his employer.