Democratic candidates sign data center pledge
Democratic legislative candidates in South Dakota have signed a pledge to establish protections against data centers, focusing on transparency, local control, and accountability for tech giants. The pledge addresses concerns about electricity costs, water usage, and the significant financial influence of data centers in political campaigns. Candidates aim to take action immediately if elected to prevent future issues.
A group of Democratic legislative candidates in South Dakota has signed a pledge to address the impact of hyperscale data centers. The pledge, initiated by District 9 House candidate Amanda Potter, emphasizes the need for immediate action upon election, citing data centers as a top concern for voters. Candidates aim to promote transparency in data center discussions, defend local control, and specifically reject tax incentives for these facilities, advocating for proactive measures before new developments begin.
The pledge builds on a "bill of rights" passed in a previous legislative session, which focused on issues like electricity costs, water usage, and local authority. However, candidates fear these protections could be undone by future lawmakers, necessitating a continuous effort to hold major tech companies such as Meta, Amazon, and Google accountable. The initiative also highlights concerns about millions of dollars from data centers influencing local political races.
So far, 21 candidates have signed the pledge, which is also open to independent, Republican, and other local government officials involved in data center discussions in Sioux Falls.