Port: Stepson of official in data center scuffle launched a news website reporting on data centers

A conflict of interest has emerged in Oliver County, North Dakota, concerning State's Attorney Patrick Waters and his stepson, Daniel Lamers, who founded "The 701 Report," a website claiming to provide investigative journalism on data center issues. Oliver County has become a focal point in the debate over data centers, including a significant project by Applied Digital, with Waters advising the County Commission on related permits.

Questions about the website's independence arose when an anonymous source noted it shared Waters' law office address and was run by his stepson. Reporter Rob Port's attempt to interview Waters on his podcast about the matter led to Waters insisting Lamers also participate. Waters then publicly disparaged the anonymous tipster and defended "The 701 Report" as a legitimate news source.

The situation escalated when Lamers verbally abused Port, mistaking him for the anonymous source. Waters later denied involvement with his stepson's website or its content, although he acknowledged giving Lamers a job in his office and referring a client for an article. Waters revealed Lamers' past struggles with addiction, claiming he was trying to help him.

Port emphasizes the heightened scrutiny of public servants like Waters amid the contentious data center debate in North Dakota. He argues that transparency is crucial, especially given the apparent conflict between Waters' official role and his stepson's reporting on the very issues Waters is involved with, calling for public servants to uphold higher standards of conduct.