What are other candidates for governor saying about data centers?
Independent candidates for Tennessee governor offered differing views on how the state should regulate data centers. Some support statewide standards or a temporary moratorium, while others favor local control or oppose a statewide ban.
Several independent candidates for Tennessee governor responded to a Main Street Media questionnaire about data center policy. Misam Abadi proposed statewide protections for water resources, the electrical grid, ratepayers, the environment and communities, while Charles Van Morgan said local voters should approve facilities in their communities.
Lauren Pinkston called for a statewide moratorium on new data center construction until lawmakers adopt siting standards covering water use, school setbacks and community input. Dave Seeman also backed a moratorium to establish an Environmental Justice Division within the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation and create enforceable facility and grid standards. Robert Vick said data centers should remain primarily a local decision, reflecting less state involvement.