N.C. Senate candidates Lee, Bichler clash over AI ad, film incentives and growth
Republican state Sen. Michael Lee and Democratic challenger Jessica Bichler debated the growth of data centers in North Carolina at a forum in Wilmington. Lee emphasized the need for stable energy for employers, while Bichler raised concerns about the industry's community impact and ability to "run roughshod" over localities. Both candidates also discussed statewide water issues.
Republican state Sen. Michael Lee and Democratic challenger Jessica Bichler clashed over several issues, including the growth of data centers, during a forum in Wilmington, North Carolina, hosted by the Greater Wilmington Business Journal. The debate also touched on a controversial AI-generated campaign ad, film incentives, and interbasin water transfers.
Regarding data centers, Senator Lee highlighted the importance of stable, dispatchable energy for industries and employers like Corning and GE, suggesting data centers align with this need. In contrast, challenger Bichler voiced significant concerns about the data center industry's power, stating that it enables them to 'run roughshod over communities' that often do not comprehend the full impact of these developments in their backyards.
Both candidates did find common ground on the issue of water availability, agreeing that the upstream town of Fuquay-Varina should not extract water from the Cape Fear River without ensuring its replenishment. Senator Lee further characterized water quantity issues as a growing statewide concern in North Carolina, emphasizing its importance alongside transportation and energy. The forum concluded with discussions on various other regional transportation matters.