Ken Paxton unveils anti-data-center plan as GOP voter anger mounts in Texas

Ken Paxton unveils anti-data-center plan as GOP voter anger mounts in Texas

News ClipThe Washington Post·TX·8/24/2026

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has unveiled a "data center plan" that includes proposing federal legislation to prohibit the use of Chinese technology in data centers. The plan also seeks to hold data centers criminally liable if they power AI chatbots that compromise children's safety. This announcement comes amid growing Republican voter anger in Texas regarding data center projects.

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Gov: Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced a "data center plan" on Monday, addressing growing concerns among Republican voters in the state regarding data center developments.

The plan includes two primary proposals: advocating for federal legislation that would ban data centers from using Chinese technology, and establishing criminal liability for data centers that power AI chatbots deemed to "undermine children's safety."

Paxton's initiative reflects a broader trend among GOP candidates who are increasingly expressing opposition to data center projects to appeal to their voter base.