Tom Tiffany attacks David Crowley on data centers as campaign for governor ramps up
The campaign for Wisconsin governor features a debate over data center policy, with Republican Tom Tiffany criticizing Democrat David Crowley's stance. Tiffany advocates for ending state subsidies and imposing strict standards, while Crowley calls for greater accountability, environmental conditions, and rigorous review of tax incentives for data centers. The issue highlights concerns over taxpayer costs, environmental impact, and energy consumption.
The campaign for Wisconsin governor is intensifying with Republican U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany attacking Democratic Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley over his perceived support for the data center industry. Tiffany's campaign released a TV ad labeling Crowley as "data center David Crowley," referencing a statement where Crowley discussed Wisconsin's potential to be an "AI and a data hub."
Tiffany is advocating for ending state subsidies for data centers and implementing strong standards to protect taxpayers, farmland, and water. He argues that new data centers without strict regulations could strain the electric grid and lead to higher food and utility costs for families.
Crowley's campaign countered by accusing Tiffany of misrepresenting Crowley's record, highlighting Crowley's calls for a "more rigorous review" of tax incentives, enhanced reporting on water usage, and requirements for data centers to meet "real conditions" on renewable energy and labor. Crowley has also emphasized holding data centers accountable for infrastructure costs and ensuring development doesn't threaten clean air and water. While he took a less confrontational stance than primary opponent state Rep. Francesca Hong, who advocated for a moratorium, Crowley has consistently stressed accountability.
Political science professor Barry Burden noted that data centers are becoming a significant, albeit politically nuanced, issue for Wisconsin voters, with a recent Marquette Law School poll indicating widespread skepticism about data centers, with approximately 70 percent believing their costs outweigh their benefits. The debate also centers on Wisconsin's existing sales and use tax exemption for data center projects, which was included in the 2023-25 state budget and could cost the state over $2 billion in forgone tax revenue.