Hinojosa calls for halt on Texas data centers as Abbott shifts message
Democratic gubernatorial candidate Gina Hinojosa called in Dallas for a halt to Texas data center development until lawmakers adopt greater transparency and protections. Gov. Greg Abbott has paused state permit approvals while officials review data centers' power and water demands, amid growing rural opposition.
Democratic candidate for Texas governor Gina Hinojosa urged a statewide pause on data center development during a Dallas appearance, saying Texans need more transparency about developer tax breaks and stronger protections for neighborhoods and rural communities. She called for lawmakers to act before additional projects move forward.
Gov. Greg Abbott, who previously promoted Google's $40 billion Texas investment, has shifted his position amid backlash. His administration has paused state permit approvals pending power and water audits, supports eliminating financial incentives and requiring developers to pay infrastructure costs. The issue is unfolding during a competitive gubernatorial race, with both Hinojosa and Abbott expressing confidence as voters prepare to decide the outcome.