SC Governor Debate: Johnson, Wilson address data centers
South Carolina gubernatorial candidates Jermaine Johnson and Alan Wilson debated how the state should manage data center development. Johnson advocated a statewide moratorium on new data center construction, citing inadequate community input and rising water-use estimates, while Wilson emphasized community oversight and protecting utility ratepayers.
During a South Carolina gubernatorial debate, candidates Jermaine Johnson and Alan Wilson addressed the rapid growth of data centers across the state. Both agreed that local communities should have a voice, but Johnson argued that current development is occurring without sufficient community involvement and described the situation as a “wild, wild West.”
Johnson cited a Spartanburg-area project that residents reportedly opposed but that was built anyway, with projected water use later doubling. He said he introduced a joint resolution seeking a statewide moratorium on data center construction until communities have greater control. Johnson pledged to oppose projects rejected by local communities, while Wilson emphasized community oversight and protections for electricity ratepayers.