Montana U.S. Senate Candidates weigh in on Data Centers and AI
Montana's US Senate candidates are actively debating data center development and AI, focusing on transparency, local control, and potential impacts on ratepayers, the environment, and water resources. Several candidates voiced opposition to unchecked growth, with one specifically calling for a moratorium on large data center projects until impacts can be thoroughly studied.
Montana's U.S. Senate candidates are actively debating the role and regulation of data centers and artificial intelligence across the state, with calls for increased transparency and local community control. Independent candidate Seth Bodnar unveiled a six-point pledge in Helena, criticizing national Republicans and Democrats for inaction. His plan seeks to prevent ratepayers from bearing energy costs, protect the environment and water supply, and ensure communities have the final say on data center projects, opposing rapid, unchecked development.
Republican candidate Kurt Alme emphasized that data center development should be a local government decision, requiring strong local oversight and transparency from companies. He expressed support for federal regulations to financially protect local ratepayers. Meanwhile, Democratic candidate Alani Bankhead has been a vocal critic, advocating for a moratorium on large data center developments until their impacts on communities can be thoroughly studied. She warned against corporations exploiting the state without accountability.
Libertarian candidate Kyle Austin also opposed data centers in Montana without transparency and accountability, raising concerns about privacy and data security. The debate comes as several Montana counties, including Cascade, Missoula, Yellowstone, and Silver Bow, have seen significant discussion around data centers. Watchdog groups have also challenged a Public Service Commission order regarding NorthWestern Energy's letters of intent for data center electricity service.
The political landscape has shifted from a year ago when Gov. Greg Gianforte signed an MOU with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to explore data center construction. Gianforte has since signed a Ratepayer Protection Pledge, aiming to shift data center costs onto companies rather than taxpayers. Public opposition remains high, with a Gallup survey indicating 70% of Americans oppose large data centers in communities.