Rand and Weber Debate for New York State Senate District 38
New York State Senate candidates Bill Weber and Joe Rand debated energy policy, including whether the state should restrict new large data centers because of their electricity demand and potential effects on utility customers. Rand supported limits and criticized Weber’s opposition to a proposed one-year pause, while Weber favored expanding energy production and questioned whether data center restrictions would lower current utility bills.
New York state Sen. Bill Weber, a Republican, and Nyack Mayor Joe Rand, a Democrat challenging him, debated ahead of the election for the 38th State Senate District at the New City Jewish Center. Their discussion covered funding, infrastructure, housing, immigration and energy costs, with both candidates presenting different records and priorities for Rockland County.
Data centers were a central point in the candidates’ energy debate. Rand said large facilities could significantly increase electricity demand and supported restrictions to protect communities and utility customers. He criticized Weber for voting against legislation that proposed a one-year pause on certain data center permits. Weber argued that New York needs more energy production, including nuclear power and potentially fracking, and questioned whether limiting data center construction would provide immediate relief from high utility bills. The article also notes that Gov. Kathy Hochul issued an executive order in July establishing a temporary pause on certain new hyperscale data center permits while additional state standards are developed.