Where N.C. political candidates stand on federal data center moratorium
Data center development has become a significant issue in North Carolina's midterm elections, with candidates taking varying stances on proposed moratoriums. Over 30 NC localities have already enacted temporary bans due to widespread concerns about electricity rates, water usage, and environmental impact. Nationally, former President Donald Trump announced a pledge for data centers to cover electric costs.
Data center expansion has emerged as a key issue in the upcoming midterm elections in North Carolina, with a recent Elon University poll indicating significant public opposition to new data center construction in local communities. Political science professor Jason Husser notes that advocating for data centers is currently an unpopular stance for North Carolina politicians.
Concerns driving this sentiment include increased electricity rates for residents, excessive water consumption, visual impact, and limited job creation. These worries have led more than 30 localities in North Carolina, including the cities of Durham, Wilson, and Charlotte, and Haywood, Chatham, Surry, and Davie counties, to enact temporary moratoriums on new data center developments. Congressional candidates from both parties in major North Carolina races have expressed a mixed bag of opinions on the issue, balancing the need for AI infrastructure with local community burdens.
Nationally, former President Donald Trump announced a pledge signed by 23 governors and utility companies, including Duke Energy, to ensure data centers cover all their electric costs, preventing the burden from falling on households. North Carolina Governor Josh Stein's office was not contacted about the pledge but expressed support for Duke Energy's commitment, urging the implementation of a large load tariff to make the voluntary pledge a reality.