Democrats vying for Wisconsin governor sound off on data centers, climate accountability during forum

During a virtual forum hosted by Citizen Action of Wisconsin, seven Democratic candidates vying for their party's nomination for Wisconsin governor addressed various topics, including the rapid increase in data center building projects and climate accountability. The candidates generally expressed caution regarding the proliferation of AI data centers in the state, advocating for increased state-level regulations and local control over their development. Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez and Madison state Sen. Kelda Roys proposed that data centers should pay enhanced rates for their electricity, while Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley called for mandatory community benefit agreements and 100 percent renewable energy sourcing for data center developers. Former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes suggested statewide studies before any new data center construction due to concerns over their impact and the lack of regulation on "big tech." Madison state Rep. Francesca Hong went further, advocating for a statewide pause on new data center projects to allow for the passage of legislation that would empower local governments to resist such developments. Former Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. CEO Missy Hughes highlighted the need for a plan to responsibly decommission data centers in the future. The candidates also broadly committed to transitioning Wisconsin to 100 percent renewable energy, with varying timelines and approaches, as part of their climate change strategies.