Michigan's Mike Duggan embraces data centers while running for governor
Former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, a candidate for Michigan governor, advocates for data centers in the state, emphasizing the need for clear standards and local community support. The issue has become a key debate in the gubernatorial race, with other candidates also proposing different approaches, including a potential moratorium to establish regulatory frameworks. Residents have expressed significant opposition to data center projects across Michigan, citing environmental and energy concerns.
Former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, an independent candidate for Michigan governor, has repeatedly stated on the campaign trail that Michigan "needs data centers" to attract future jobs, according to recordings reviewed by The Detroit News. While acknowledging past comments, Duggan emphasized the state needs "a clear standard for data centers" and that he would support local community decisions, believing that education and clear standards could foster more local acceptance.
The debate over data centers is a defining issue in the upcoming election, with many candidates facing a balancing act between the economic opportunities presented by data centers—seen as crucial for AI development by powerful interest groups like utility companies and business organizations—and the significant public opposition in various Michigan townships and cities. For instance, a proposed 250-acre data center in Saline Township involving Oracle and OpenAI is projected to consume 1.4 gigawatts, equivalent to the power demand of 1 million homes.
Tom Leonard, a Republican who ended his gubernatorial bid, had called for a one-year moratorium on data centers to allow lawmakers to develop a framework protecting the environment and ratepayers, criticizing Duggan's "mixed messaging." Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer also commented on the issue, asserting that data centers are part of America's future and Michigan must find a way to benefit while upholding environmental laws. Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, a front-runner for the Democratic nomination, has a policy plan calling for public hearings, union contracts, and proof from developers that projects will not harm natural resources or increase energy costs for residents. Duggan's campaign later released a policy plan affirming data centers' importance for Michigan's economy and proposing a new, transparent siting process requiring local community support and binding agreements, with developers bearing 100% of the costs.