Did Data Centers Make the Difference for Democrats?
An AI data center being developed in Vineland has become a major source of local opposition and a political issue in Cumberland County. New Jersey’s Department of Environmental Protection fined DataOne Vineland $1.1 million for operating gas generators without permits and ordered it to obtain permits or stop operations, while developers contest the fine.
DataOne Vineland is building an AI data center in Vineland, New Jersey, with Northeast Precast and Nebius involved in developing the facility and Microsoft expected to purchase its computing capacity. The project has drawn intense opposition from Cumberland County residents over noise, pollution, energy use and concerns about the influence of technology companies and campaign donors on local politics.
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection fined the facility $1.1 million after an investigation found that it had operated dozens of gas generators without required permits. The agency ordered the project to secure permits or cease operations by November 6, but the developers are contesting the fine and have reportedly continued operating generators while installing gas fuel cells. Local organizer Matt Williams said opposition to the project helped fuel Democratic victories in Cumberland County, including Zack Mullock’s upset congressional win over Republican Jeff Van Drew, although Mullock said other issues also shaped the election.