Data centers become flashpoint in Wisconsin governor’s race
Data centers have become a significant issue in Wisconsin's gubernatorial race, with candidates David Crowley and Tom Tiffany outlining differing approaches to their development and regulation. A poll indicates most Wisconsinites believe the costs of data centers outweigh the benefits, while state economic development officials emphasize their economic importance. Candidates debate issues like tax exemptions, electricity rates, and environmental protection related to data center growth.
Data centers have emerged as a critical point of contention in Wisconsin's gubernatorial race, with both Democratic candidate David Crowley and Republican Tom Tiffany presenting distinct stances on their regulation and economic impact. A recent Marquette Law School poll revealed that nearly three-quarters of Wisconsinites perceive the costs associated with data centers as outweighing their benefits. Conversely, John Miller, Secretary for the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, argued at a WisPolitics luncheon that the economic and job development benefits of data centers are being underestimated, even humorously suggesting that those who dislike data centers should "stop eating cheese" due to the greater water consumption required for cheese production.
Republican Tom Tiffany has centered his campaign on ending state subsidies for data centers, specifically a tax exemption passed in the 23-24 state budget, which the Legislative Fiscal Bureau estimates could cost the state $2 billion in foregone sales tax revenue. Tiffany asserts that data centers do not require taxpayer subsidies and vows to protect citizens from increased electricity rates and to ensure rigorous environmental reviews by the Department of Natural Resources to safeguard farmland and adhere to regulations.
Democratic candidate David Crowley emphasizes accountability, stating that data centers "have to pay their own way" for infrastructure and should source their own new clean energy. Endorsed by the environmental group Clean Wisconsin Action, Crowley pledged to work with the State Legislature to implement "as many guardrails as possible" to protect Wisconsin's natural resources and its citizens, aligning with his commitment to environmental sustainability. The debate highlights the complex balance between economic development and environmental and fiscal concerns in the state.