Oklahoma Governor Race: In data center debate, Munson wants moratorium, Mazzei wants management
Oklahoma Democratic gubernatorial nominee Cyndi Munson said she would impose a moratorium on new data center construction on her first day in office if elected. Republican nominee Mike Mazzei supports continued data center development but says projects need stronger regulations and should cover their own infrastructure and energy costs.
Oklahoma gubernatorial candidates Cyndi Munson and Mike Mazzei offered contrasting approaches to the state’s growing data center industry during a debate. Munson said she would issue an executive order placing a moratorium on new data center projects, arguing that Oklahoma’s relatively loose rules are attracting developers and that new guidelines are needed.
Mazzei said data centers are important to the United States’ artificial intelligence ambitions but should be subject to local approval and appropriate safeguards. Munson also said data center developers should pay for their infrastructure, electricity and utilities rather than shifting costs to Oklahoma residents or using the state’s natural resources. Oklahoma has about 45 operational or planned data centers, substantially fewer than leading states such as Virginia and Texas.