NJ Rep. Kean acquired more data center stocks as backlash to AI boom grows
U.S. Rep. Tom Kean Jr. of New Jersey has continued to acquire data center stocks amidst growing backlash over the AI boom's environmental and financial effects. The article highlights numerous municipal bans on data centers in New Jersey and ongoing opposition to a specific Linde data center project in Wayne County, Pennsylvania. Kean maintains his stock trades are managed by independent financial professionals.
U.S. Rep. Tom Kean Jr. of New Jersey has continued to acquire stocks in data center development companies, according to his latest financial report to Congress. This comes as concerns over artificial intelligence safety and the environmental and financial impacts of AI data centers have become significant issues for voters, particularly ahead of the midterm elections in his 7th Congressional District race.
Kean's disclosure indicates he obtained shares worth up to $30,000 in data center firms Linde and MasTec, adding to previous investments in companies like Texas Instruments and nVent. Despite sitting on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which oversees AI-related issues, Kean stated he has no personal involvement in these transactions, claiming his assets are managed by independent financial professionals in a blind trust.
Opposition to the AI data center boom is widespread; nearly 100 municipalities in New Jersey have enacted bans through local ordinances, and a March 2026 analysis by the New Jersey Policy Perspective linked the industry's growth to a 22% increase in state electricity costs. Democratic challenger Rebecca Bennett criticized Kean's investments, advocating for a full stock trading ban for members of Congress. Furthermore, Linde, one of the companies Kean invested in, is reportedly facing opposition from residents and officials regarding its plans to build the first data center in Wayne County, Pennsylvania.
Kean has dismissed his opponent's claims as