Scrutiny of Schutz’s stock holdings reveals the perils that data centers pose for candidates
Data center opposition is becoming a prominent issue in Minnesota elections, including the attorney general race between Ron Schutz and incumbent Keith Ellison. Critics say Schutz’s holdings in companies tied to hyperscale data centers could create conflicts of interest, while Ellison has warned that Google’s Pine Island project could shift major power costs to Xcel Energy ratepayers.
Data center development is emerging as a major campaign issue in Minnesota, with candidates facing scrutiny over their positions and financial ties to the industry. Republican attorney general candidate Ron Schutz has pledged to divest from some holdings or place them in a blind trust, after opponents highlighted investments in companies including Meta, Microsoft and Google’s parent company. Democratic incumbent Keith Ellison has criticized those holdings and said the attorney general must protect consumers from data center-related utility costs.
The article also describes broader opposition to projects in communities including Hermantown, Pine Island, Rosemount and Monticello. Democratic congressional candidate Jake Johnson accused Rep. Brad Finstad of assisting data center development, while the No Dirty Data Centers MN coalition and local activists called for stronger state laws and moratoriums. Ellison separately warned the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission that Google’s Pine Island project could shift as much as $1 billion in costs to Xcel Energy customers.