Candidate Guide: Every Calvert County Commissioner Candidate’s Stance On Data Centers
Data center development has become a central and highly debated issue in Calvert County, Maryland, influencing the 2026 Board of County Commissioners election where several incumbents lost due to their stances on these projects. Candidates across the political spectrum are now largely opposing large-scale data center projects, highlighting concerns about environmental impacts, infrastructure, and transparency. A previously proposed moratorium on data centers was rejected by the former board, further fueling public discontent.
Data center development has emerged as a dominant issue in Calvert County, Maryland, significantly shaping the 2026 Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) election. The controversy escalated after county officials entered into nondisclosure agreements with developers, leading to widespread public debate over environmental impacts, infrastructure demands, transparency, and growth. The issue's importance was underscored during the primary election, where Board President Todd Ireland, Vice President Mark Cox, and Commissioner Buddy Hance all lost their reelection bids, largely due to their votes against a proposed data center moratorium earlier this year.
Most candidates for the BOCC have taken positions against large-scale data center projects, though their approaches to future development and economic strategy vary. Republican candidate Patti Stueckler explicitly states "No data centers in Calvert" and criticizes NDAs. Fellow Republican Jason Scaggs also firmly opposes current proposals, despite an earlier acknowledgement of potential tax benefits. Democratic candidates Judy Pedersen and Antoine White consistently oppose data centers, with White pledging to halt projects if elected and joining a statement demanding a ban on hyperscale facilities.
Incumbent Commissioner Mike Hart's stance evolved, leading him to support a moratorium, an independent study, and a public referendum after acknowledging past mistakes. Democratic candidate Ethan Cox raises staunch opposition, advocating for a focus on agriculture and tourism. Republican Kenneth Lee also calls to "STOP DATA CENTERS!", citing negative impacts on taxpayers, waterways, and rural character. Incumbent Commissioner Catherine Grasso has emerged as a vocal critic, denying participation in developer negotiations and opposing data centers as inappropriate for the community and environment. Democratic candidate Michael Bennett also opposes large-scale development and supports a moratorium and increased transparency.
Despite nuanced differences in their positions, candidates across the ballot are largely unified in their opposition to data center proposals. Key differences lie in whether any future projects should be considered, the role of voters in these decisions, and how county officials can rebuild public trust following this highly consequential political debate.