Now That Kotek Backs Data Center Moratorium, Her Opponent — and Her Allies — Want More
Governor Tina Kotek is facing increased pressure regarding data center development in Oregon after backing a statewide moratorium. Her opponent, Senator Christine Drazan, is calling for an immediate ban, while some of Kotek's allies urge quicker action. A poll shows strong public support for a moratorium and ending tax breaks, as Amazon highlights its economic contributions.
Governor Tina Kotek is facing increased pressure regarding data center development in Oregon after announcing support for a statewide moratorium. Her Republican opponent, Senator Christine Drazan, advocates for an immediate ban on new data centers, while some of Kotek's allies, including Tammy Carpenter, are urging quicker action, suggesting a special legislative session to preempt developers from securing permits before a moratorium is enacted.
Kotek has publicly stated her support for a moratorium to ensure data center development aligns with Oregon's interests. A recent poll by DHM Research indicates significant public support for such measures, with two-thirds of voters favoring a moratorium and three-quarters wanting to end tax breaks for data centers. In response to these discussions, Amazon Web Services reported investments of nearly $55 billion in data centers within Oregon and over $71 million in local tax payments, emphasizing its economic contributions to the state.