Tennessee governor candidates weigh in on data center growth and new technology
Tennessee Republican gubernatorial candidates Senator Marsha Blackburn and Congressman John Rose both agree that decisions regarding data center placement should be made at the local level. They acknowledge concerns about privacy, taxes, and the need for adequate infrastructure, suggesting the state could provide a framework to assist communities in their evaluations.
Local 3 News reported on the stances of Tennessee's Republican gubernatorial candidates, Senator Marsha Blackburn and Congressman John Rose, regarding data center growth and new technology ahead of early voting. Both candidates emphasized that decisions regarding data center placement should primarily rest with local communities. They acknowledged public concerns surrounding increasing technology use, including privacy, potential tax impacts, and the siting of data centers.
Senator Blackburn stated that local communities should have the final say on developments within their areas, suggesting that the state could offer a framework to assist these communities in evaluating the suitability of data centers. Congressman Rose echoed this sentiment, highlighting that some communities with adequate electrical and water capacity might be willing to host data centers, while also recognizing the importance of proper placement. The report noted that Local 3 News had reached out to State Representative Monty Fritz, another Republican candidate, and five Democratic candidates for their viewpoints, but had not yet received responses.