Democrats invoke data centers in battle for Senate seat
Connecticut Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff called for a statewide moratorium on new data center construction during a visit to southeastern Connecticut. Duff cited concerns about electricity, water and infrastructure costs, while Republican Sen. Heather Somers argued that individual municipalities should retain authority over data center approvals.
Connecticut Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff, who is expected to become Senate president next year, called for a statewide pause on new data center construction during a visit to Montville and Groton. Duff said lawmakers should first evaluate the impact of data centers on electricity, water supplies and infrastructure before allowing additional construction.
Duff was joined by Democratic Senate candidate Joe de la Cruz, who is challenging Republican Sen. Heather Somers. Somers criticized the proposed moratorium, saying the state should not dictate development decisions to individual towns and arguing that data centers can generate local tax revenue and reduce property taxes. The proposal would be considered by the Democratic-controlled legislature when it reconvenes.