Data centers divide Florida governor's race as voters question the AI boom
Republican gubernatorial nominee Byron Donalds supports data center development with safeguards, while Democratic nominee David Jolly proposes a one-year statewide moratorium to examine impacts. This debate is unfolding amidst an existing state law, SB 484, which addresses local authority, utility rates, and water permits, and significant public opposition to data centers.
The development of data centers has become a contentious issue in Florida's gubernatorial race, with Republican nominee Byron Donalds and Democratic nominee David Jolly taking opposing stances. Donalds advocates for data centers as essential infrastructure for Florida's economic competitiveness, provided they include safeguards for water supplies, electricity customers, and neighboring communities. His campaign also asserts that local communities should retain the power to reject such projects. In contrast, Jolly proposes a one-year statewide moratorium on data center construction if elected, arguing for a pause to thoroughly investigate their environmental, health, and economic consequences, believing current expansion prioritizes industry profit over public interest.
This political disagreement is set against the backdrop of existing state policy; Florida has already implemented new restrictions through SB 484, signed by Governor Ron DeSantis in May. This law preserves local authority over development, requires utility rate protections to ensure data centers cover their service costs, and establishes water-permitting requirements. Furthermore, SB 484 mandates an independent study of data centers' economic, environmental, energy, and public health effects. Nationally, President Donald Trump's administration has promoted data centers for job creation and lower taxes, while advocating for a ratepayer protection pledge from major technology companies.
Public opinion in Florida, as indicated by a University of North Florida poll, shows substantial opposition, with 68% of likely voters against an AI data center in their local area. A broader national Economist/YouGov poll found similar sentiment, with 63% of U.S. adults opposing a new data center in their community and 60% believing it would increase electricity costs. These survey results highlight the political challenge facing proponents of data center expansion, as many voters remain unconvinced of the benefits when weighed against local impacts.