Michigan gubernatorial debate | Data centers
Michigan gubernatorial candidates Jocelyn Benson and John James debated data center development, including local control, electricity costs, water protection, pollution and disclosure of proposed facilities. Benson called for a moratorium until safeguards are established, while James argued for local control and defended his record against allegations involving data center-related investments and legislation.
During a Michigan gubernatorial debate hosted by WOOD TV8, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Rep. John James clashed over data center development and their positions on regulation. Benson said communities should retain control, residents should not bear additional electricity costs, and projects should protect water and prevent air, noise and water pollution. She also called for a moratorium until safeguards are adopted and said data centers should be responsible for the electricity they consume.
The candidates also disputed allegations about financial ties to the data center industry and votes affecting local authority. Benson said her family had not profited from data centers and accused James of investing in companies he would regulate and supporting measures that limited local input. James denied the allegations, said his positions and finances were transparent, and accused Benson and her running mate of supporting data center projects and using nondisclosure agreements. Both candidates were questioned about whether proposed facilities should be kept confidential from nearby residents, with each emphasizing transparency and local control.