Data centers figure prominently in former US interior secretary's campaign for New Mexico Governor
Data centers are a central issue in New Mexico's governor's race. Candidate Deb Haaland proposes a moratorium on new data center construction due to water concerns, while opponent Gregg Hull advocates attracting investment with environmental regulations. The debate highlights the industry's growing political footprint in the state.
Data centers have emerged as a significant topic in the New Mexico gubernatorial race, with both leading candidates outlining their positions on the expanding industry. Former U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, a Democratic candidate, declared her intention to enact a moratorium on new large-scale data center construction in New Mexico if elected. Speaking in Albuquerque, Haaland cited water scarcity as the primary reason, stating, "The bottom line is we don’t have water to waste."
Haaland’s campaign clarified that her proposed moratorium would not affect ongoing projects and would remain in effect until "strong, clear" regulations are established. Campaign finance records revealed that companies and executives associated with a substantial Project Jupiter data center planned for southern New Mexico have contributed tens of thousands of dollars to Haaland's campaign. In contrast, the Republican nominee, Gregg Hull, received no such donations during the same period. Hull opposes a moratorium, arguing that New Mexico should actively compete to attract data center investments while simultaneously implementing regulations to manage their environmental and other impacts.