Trump skewers Hochul’s ban of data centers in NY: ‘Terrible decision’
Former President Donald Trump criticized New York Governor Kathy Hochul's newly announced statewide ban on new data center permits, calling it a "terrible decision." Hochul implemented the pause due to concerns about data centers straining the energy grid, a move opposed by Trump and local Republican leaders who argue it will harm the state's economy and drive away investment.
Former President Donald Trump has strongly condemned New York Governor Kathy Hochul's recent executive order to pause new permits for data centers across the state. Trump labeled the decision as "terrible," arguing on Truth Social that New York would lose significant income and jobs to "Red States, and some Blue," which actively seek data centers as "Cash Cows" offering lower taxes and numerous jobs. He urged New York to "IMMEDIATELY" reverse its policy, warning against losing technology like AI to other countries.
Governor Hochul defended her "first-in-the-nation ban," stating her intention for New York to be "first in the right way" and citing concerns about the strain data centers place on the energy grid. This move has also drawn criticism from New York City's top Republican, Minority Council Leader David Carr of Staten Island.
Carr echoed Trump's sentiments, criticizing New York's energy policies, including the shutdown of a nuclear power plant, opposition to natural gas, and reliance on expensive Canadian hydroelectric power. He concluded that placing a moratorium on data centers, which bring billions in investment and thousands of jobs, is not a sound energy or economic strategy for the state, calling it a "tremendous missed opportunity."