Democratic governor candidate calls to end data center tax breaks in Macon stop

During a campaign stop in Macon, Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jason Esteves advocated for the cessation of state tax breaks for data centers in Georgia. Esteves, a former Georgia state senator, contended that these tax incentives have diverted substantial revenue from the state, estimated at $2.5 billion in the past fiscal year, benefiting large corporations and wealthy individuals. He proposed reallocating these funds to support Georgians and public programs. The debate over data center tax breaks is a significant issue across Georgia, particularly as these large-scale developments expand into smaller towns and rural areas. For instance, land in Twiggs County was rezoned for a data center despite local opposition, and Google acquired a tract for $42 million in Monroe County for similar development. While a bill to repeal data center tax breaks cleared the Georgia Senate this session, a previous attempt in 2024 was vetoed by Governor Brian Kemp. Esteves also addressed the growing pressure data centers place on Georgia's electrical grid. He stressed the importance of holding data centers accountable for the costs associated with necessary infrastructure upgrades, including those for power and water. This demand follows a December 2025 approval by the Georgia Public Service Commission for a significant expansion of the state's power grid, a move that drew criticism over concerns that ratepayers would bear the costs of accommodating an additional 10,000 megawatts for data center growth. Esteves is one of seven Democratic candidates competing in the May 19 primary for the Georgia gubernatorial nomination.