Tom Tiffany Promises Farmland Protection From Data Centers During Stop In Brillion
Wisconsin gubernatorial candidate Tom Tiffany, during a campaign stop in Brillion, promised to protect farmland from data centers and large-scale renewable energy projects. He criticized his opponent, David Crowley, for supporting data center subsidies and advocated for local control over data center development. Tiffany's campaign suggests Crowley's energy policies for data centers could consume vast tracts of land.
Wisconsin gubernatorial candidate Congressman Tom Tiffany, making a stop at Shiloh Dairy in Brillion as part of his "Protect Our Farmland" Tour, declared his intention to safeguard agricultural land from data centers and extensive wind and solar developments should he be elected governor. Tiffany criticized his opponent, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, alleging Crowley's support for data center subsidies would lead to increased costs for taxpayers and the loss of farmland. Tiffany vowed to terminate these subsidies.
Tiffany's campaign highlighted that Crowley's proposals for data centers to utilize 100% renewable energy with battery backups could require up to 100,000 acres of land, an area larger than the combined cities of Green Bay, Appleton, and Oshkosh. When questioned about a potential statewide data center moratorium, mirroring one enacted in Manitowoc County, Tiffany emphasized his belief in local control, advocating for communities to make their own decisions regarding data center construction.
Crowley's campaign, in response, also affirmed a preference for local decision-making regarding data centers. However, they stipulated that if a community approves a data center, the developer would be required to use 100% renewable energy, cover all infrastructure and grid upgrade costs, and avoid non-disclosure agreements. The candidates are scheduled to hold a debate on October 9th ahead of the November 3rd General Election.