Trump rails against New York’s statewide datacenter moratorium
New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed an executive order establishing a one-year statewide moratorium on new hyperscale data centers to address environmental impacts and energy grid concerns. This action made New York the first US state to enact such a pause. Former President Donald Trump criticized the decision, stating it was politically motivated and detrimental to job creation and state revenue.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has enacted a one-year statewide moratorium on new hyperscale data centers, making New York the first US state to implement such a policy. The executive order, signed on July 14, 2026, aims to allow state regulators to develop comprehensive standards addressing the environmental impacts of these facilities, including risks to the energy grid, land disruption, noise pollution, and water supply protection.
Former President Donald Trump sharply criticized the moratorium on his Truth Social platform, calling it a "terrible decision" and urging Governor Hochul to scrap the policy immediately. Trump argued that data centers are crucial for future jobs and significant revenue generators for states, suggesting New York's decision would drive these investments to other states.
Hochul stated the pause will allow New York to establish a robust framework to safeguard communities and natural resources. The decision comes amidst growing national concern over data centers' effects on energy prices and local environments, with other states also considering or enacting similar bans.