Texas Democrats see data centers as a winning issue - ABC News
Opposition to data center development has become a major issue in Texas politics, with Democratic gubernatorial candidate Gina Hinojosa backing a moratorium, stricter water and power rules, and an end to tax incentives. Gov. Greg Abbott has announced a moratorium on new data centers in rural communities and defended his own proposed safeguards, while critics and rural voters remain skeptical.
Democratic gubernatorial candidate Gina Hinojosa is making opposition to data center construction a central issue in her campaign against Republican Gov. Greg Abbott. She supports a moratorium on new facilities, tighter limits on water and electricity use, and ending tax breaks for the industry. The issue has gained traction among rural voters concerned about pollution, water consumption and the loss of farmland, with several counties suing to block projects.
Abbott has announced a moratorium on new data center construction in rural communities and said Texas should impose stronger power and water requirements. Supporters argue the facilities bring jobs and revenue to struggling areas, while critics including Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller and residents such as Centerville farmer Daniel McCoslin say the governor has prioritized industry interests over local concerns. An ABC News/Washington Post/Ipsos poll found that 69% of Texans oppose new data centers in their communities.