Data centers became decisive issue for NYS voters
Data centers became a major issue in New York elections, with polls showing broad voter support for Gov. Kathy Hochul's moratorium on new development. State lawmakers are working on stronger environmental regulations, including measures addressing data centers' water, land and utility impacts.
Data center development emerged as a significant issue in New York's gubernatorial and congressional races. Polling cited in the report found that most voters opposed data centers and supported Gov. Kathy Hochul's moratorium, while Republican candidate Bruce Blakeman pledged to repeal it and argued that energy policies were contributing more directly to rising utility costs.
State lawmakers are developing additional rules during the moratorium, including environmental reviews and the proposed Responsible Data Center Development Act. The legislation, which passed both chambers before the moratorium was issued, would extend the development pause and require a broader environmental review; it was awaiting Hochul's signature or veto. Environmental Advocates New York's Rob Hayes criticized the lack of transparency surrounding developers' potential water and land impacts.