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Data Center Scouts
2026 governor elections · Results and positions

Where the new governors stand on data centers.

The winners of 26 governor races in states with real data center markets. Their own words. See what they say about building data centers, who pays for power, and who gets the final say.

Updated First published By the Data Center Scouts advisory team

Compare governorsHow to read this guide
26state governor races
25winners called by AP
27with sourced quotes
8policy topics
2026 governor elections

The people who will govern.

We cover 26 governor races in states with a meaningful data center market. Each state shows the winner as called by the Associated Press, with links to the call and to the state's own results. New governors come first, with full detail. Re-elected governors are summarized after them. Any race still uncalled is shown separately. Each state also shows our own data: facility counts, tracked projects and local moratoriums.

Results are unofficial until each state certifies them. Positions reflect the dated sources below, reviewed November 4, 2026. No endorsements.

The short version

Our reading of each winner's stated position. Winners are as called by the Associated Press, checked November 4, 2026, and are unofficial until certified. Details and sources are in each state below.

Results: 25 of 26 races called by the Associated Press

Winners are as called by the Associated Press, checked November 4, 2026. Each state links to the AP call and to the state's own results page. Results are unofficial until each state certifies them. Before the election, we chose who to profile from Polymarket odds; see the methodology below.

Governor races by state
StateWinnerCalledOfficial results
AlabamaTommy Tuberville (Republican)November 4, 2026 · AP call State results
ArizonaKatie Hobbs (Democratic), re-electedNovember 4, 2026 · AP call State results
CaliforniaXavier Becerra (Democratic)November 3, 2026 · AP call State results
ColoradoPhil Weiser (Democratic)November 3, 2026 · AP call State results
ConnecticutNed Lamont (Democratic), re-electedNovember 3, 2026 · AP call State results
FloridaByron Donalds (Republican)November 3, 2026 · AP call State results
GeorgiaKeisha Lance Bottoms (Democratic)November 3, 2026 · AP call State results
IllinoisJB Pritzker (Democratic), re-electedNovember 3, 2026 · AP call State results
IowaRob Sand (Democratic)November 3, 2026 · AP call State results
KansasNot yet calledPendingState results
MarylandWes Moore (Democratic), re-electedNovember 3, 2026 · AP call State results
MassachusettsMaura Healey (Democratic), re-electedNovember 3, 2026 · AP call State results
MichiganJocelyn Benson (Democratic)November 4, 2026 · AP call State results
MinnesotaAmy Klobuchar (Democratic-Farmer-Labor)November 3, 2026 · AP call State results
NebraskaJim Pillen (Republican), re-electedNovember 4, 2026 · AP call State results
NevadaAaron Ford (Democratic)November 4, 2026 · AP call State results
New MexicoDeb Haaland (Democratic)November 3, 2026 · AP call State results
New YorkKathy C. Hochul (Democratic), re-electedNovember 3, 2026 · AP call State results
OhioAmy Acton (Democratic)November 3, 2026 · AP call State results
OregonTina Kotek (Democratic), re-electedNovember 4, 2026 · AP call State results
PennsylvaniaJosh Shapiro (Democratic), re-electedNovember 3, 2026 · AP call State results
South CarolinaAlan Wilson (Republican)November 3, 2026 · AP call State results
TennesseeMarsha Blackburn (Republican)November 3, 2026 · AP call State results
TexasGina Hinojosa (Democratic)November 3, 2026 · AP call State results
WisconsinDavid Crowley (Democratic)November 3, 2026 · AP call State results
WyomingEric Barlow (Republican)November 3, 2026 · AP call State results
Browse states A–Z
Compare the record

Find a candidate's position

Sources and methodology

Issue labels mean the cited statement addresses that topic. They do not indicate support or opposition. Candidates are listed by surname within each state.

Showing 27 governors in 26 races.

16 states

Governors-elect: new to the office

These newly elected governors take office in 2027. Policy is most likely to change here. Each card shows the position, the quote and what it means for a project.

Governor · November 3, 2026

Alabama

State policy guide

Alabama by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

16 data centers in our facility database · 4 projects in our permit tracker, 1 flagged notable.

The Associated Press called the race for Tommy Tuberville on November 4, 2026, early Wednesday morning. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results

Republican · Governor-elect

#

Tommy Tuberville

Developers pay full taxes and every cost; communities can say no

In his September op-ed, Tuberville set out his plan: no tax abatements or incentives, the highest property-tax bracket, and developers paying for the transmission lines, substations and water systems they need. Data centers must replace the power and water they use, and a community that says no gets a no. In October he also told a Birmingham Rotary audience he is "100 percent for data centers."

The opening of his op-ed laying out a four-point data-center plan.

“When I am governor, data centers will pay for everything. Look, this isn't college football, and there's no NIL deal here. Here's my message to data centers: If you want to use our resources, you pay full taxes, cover the total cost of your energy, and replace what you take. We'll welcome you with open arms, but keep your hands out of our pockets.”

Candidate op-ed · September 1, 2026
Read the original source

Tax incentivesElectricity costsWater and environmentLocal control

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

Alabama stays open, but projects lose tax breaks and carry their full infrastructure, power and water costs. Local opposition would be decisive.

Which projects it hits
No statewide pause. Any project a community rejects would not go ahead. He does not say whether existing projects are covered.
Tax breaks and power costs
No abatements or incentives. Highest property-tax class. Developers pay for transmission, substations and water systems, and replace the power and water they use, by building their own or paying into a fund. He also wants to extend the Alabama Power rate freeze past 2029.
Who has to act
Ending incentives and changing the tax class need the legislature. He does not say which parts he would do by executive action. Critics say a local veto may need a constitutional amendment (reported).
Timing
No date given.
Sources and limits

This entry describes a stated position. It does not establish that the proposal has become law or that a project is approved.

Supporting sources

Evidence reviewed

Governor · November 3, 2026

California

Compare state policies

California by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

211 data centers in our facility database.

The Associated Press called the race for Xavier Becerra on November 3, 2026, 8 p.m. Pacific, as polls closed. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results

Democratic · Governor-elect

#

Xavier Becerra

Clean-energy standard and cost coverage in exchange for faster permits

Becerra's plan holds data centers to a standard: add value to the grid, run on clean energy, cover their own energy costs and disclose environmental performance. In return his administration would improve permitting. At the September 30 debate he said projects that take a community's energy and water are not a good deal, while projects adding jobs, power and water capacity are welcome.

His campaign AI platform, item 7, setting conditions for data centers in exchange for faster permitting.

“I will pursue an economic-forward standard: data centers that operate in California add value to our current energy infrastructure, are powered with clean energy, cover the costs of their own energy needs, and meet environmental performance disclosure requirements. In return, my administration will improve data center permitting programs and provide the policy certainty industry needs to invest and grow in California and the technological opportunities of tomorrow.”

Campaign statement · Undated statement
Read the original source

Electricity costsWater and environmentPublic disclosureLocal control

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

California remains open to projects that bring clean power and cover their own energy costs. Those projects could get faster, more predictable permitting.

Which projects it hits
Data centers operating in California would need to meet his standard. No size threshold. Treatment of existing facilities not stated.
Tax breaks and power costs
Projects cover their own energy costs and use clean energy. Nothing stated on tax breaks.
Who has to act
His administration on permitting. Disclosure rules would likely need legislation or agency rules.
Timing
No date given.
Sources and limits

This entry describes a stated position. It does not establish that the proposal has become law or that a project is approved.

Supporting sources

Evidence reviewed

Governor · November 3, 2026

Colorado

Compare state policies

Colorado by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

45 data centers in our facility database · 42 projects in our permit tracker, 23 flagged notable.

Notable filings we track:

  • QTS, Aurora, Adams County: 60 MW (capacity stated in the filing). Building permit issued, July 31, 2025.
  • QTS, Aurora, Adams County: 22.5 MW (capacity stated in the filing). Building permit issued, August 20, 2026.

The Associated Press called the race for Phil Weiser on November 3, 2026, 7 p.m. Mountain, as polls closed. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results

Democratic · Governor-elect

#

Phil Weiser

First priority: a state data-center law with cost protections

Weiser says a data-center bill from the legislature would be his first priority, setting state guardrails with some decisions left to local governments. He wants to lock in protection so electricity rates are not hiked to pay for data centers. His plan has data centers either generate their own power or pay for new infrastructure through the utility commission, and report energy and water use.

KUNC interview, asked what role the state should play in regulating data centers and what should stay with local communities.

“And finally, we've got key protections for clean energy, for water, and data centers can't undermine those as well. So those are the types of guardrails. One of my first priorities, in fact, my first priority, will be getting a bill from the legislature addressing this issue of data centers, and yes, there will be some local decisions, but they need to be state guardrails so that we're all protected.”

Candidate statement · October 14, 2026
Read the reporting

Electricity costsWater and environmentLocal controlPublic disclosure

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

Expect a Colorado data-center law early in his term. Plan for own generation or paying for new grid infrastructure, and for public reporting of energy and water use.

Which projects it hits
Future data centers. Energy and water reporting applies above a large-load threshold he has not defined. No statewide ban.
Tax breaks and power costs
Data centers either generate their own power or pay for new infrastructure, enforced by the Public Utilities Commission (reported). Rates must not rise because of them.
Who has to act
The legislature passes the bill. The Public Utilities Commission enforces cost recovery. Local governments keep some decisions.
Timing
His first legislative priority.
Sources and limits

This entry describes a stated position. It does not establish that the proposal has become law or that a project is approved.

Supporting sources

Evidence reviewed

Governor · November 3, 2026

Florida

Compare state policies

Florida by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

58 data centers in our facility database · 1 projects in our permit tracker.

The Associated Press called the race for Byron Donalds on November 3, 2026, about 9:10 p.m. Eastern. Won by just over one point. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results

Republican · Governor-elect

#

Byron Donalds

Local veto, no rate increases, no moratorium

Donalds says local governments can block data centers and that bills should not rise because of them, including at rural co-ops not covered by the new state law. He opposes a statewide moratorium as a bad signal to investors and points to water permits to protect aquifers. In Congress he introduced a bill requiring data centers to supply their own power and water, but has not pledged a state version.

Interview at a campaign stop in Sebring, asked how he would manage data centers.

“If local communities don't want a data center, that's for the local community to decide. Gov. DeSantis recently signed Senate Bill 484 into law and it is very clear: the state of Florida is not going to pre-empt local governments. Also in that law are strict requirements that the data center is going to have to pay its own freight for power usage, it's not going to be on the back of Floridians.”

Candidate statement · September 4, 2026
Read the reporting

Local controlElectricity costsWater and environment

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

Florida stays open where local governments agree. Plan for rate protections that may reach beyond the four big utilities, and for water permits.

Which projects it hits
No statewide moratorium. A local no stops a project. He relies on the 2026 state law (SB 484) for the local veto.
Tax breaks and power costs
He says utility bills will not go up, including at rural co-ops (reported, FOX 13). Water permits to protect aquifers. Nothing stated on tax breaks.
Who has to act
Local governments decide. Extending cost protection to co-ops would likely need legislation.
Timing
No date given.
Official actions and sources

Evidence reviewed

Governor · November 3, 2026

Georgia

State policy guide

Georgia by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

113 data centers in our facility database · 27 projects in our permit tracker, 7 flagged notable.

Notable filings we track:

  • Undisclosed developer, Rockdale County: 19.16 acres. Zoning or planning review, September 24, 2026.
  • DataBank, Cartersville. Zoning or planning approval, September 3, 2026.

The Associated Press called the race for Keisha Lance Bottoms on November 3, 2026. Won with a majority, so no runoff. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results

Democratic · Governor-elect

#

Keisha Lance Bottoms

Statewide pause on all new data-center construction

Bottoms says she would pause all new data-center construction statewide until Georgia has a plan, with experts advising the state. She backs PSC Commissioner Peter Hubbard's proposals: clean energy, data centers paying for their own infrastructure, no NDAs and local safeguards. She says eminent domain should be used only in extreme cases.

October 6 town-hall debate, answering a voter who asked how she would deal with data centers and the power plants built for them.

“I have called for a pause on the construction of new data centers. Georgia is currently number one in the country for data centers. We need to pause. We need consumers like you. We need experts in this field to sit around the table and tell us and give us guidance as to how the state of Georgia should move forward.”

Candidate statement · October 6, 2026
Read the reporting

Construction pausesElectricity costsPublic disclosureLocal controlLand and siting

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

Treat new Georgia construction as at risk of a statewide pause. Projects already built are not named. The pause has no end date.

Which projects it hits
All new data-center construction statewide. Existing facilities are not named.
Tax breaks and power costs
Data centers pay for their own infrastructure, per the Hubbard proposals she backs. She has not stated a position on tax breaks.
Who has to act
She has said she is unsure whether the pause can be done by executive order or needs legislation (reported). The Public Service Commission matters for power costs.
Timing
One of her first acts as governor (reported). No end date. It lasts until a statewide plan is ready.
Sources and limits

This entry describes a stated position. It does not establish that the proposal has become law or that a project is approved.

Supporting sources

Evidence reviewed

Governor · November 3, 2026

Iowa

Compare state policies

Iowa by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

17 data centers in our facility database · 1 projects in our permit tracker.

The Associated Press called the race for Rob Sand on November 3, 2026, late Tuesday. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results

Democratic · Governor-elect

#

Rob Sand

End data-center tax breaks and make projects pay every cost

Sand says he will end data-center tax breaks, including sales-tax exemptions on equipment, and sign a bill making data centers pay 100% of infrastructure and energy costs so household bills do not rise. For new data centers he would ban NDAs, require public disclosure and hearings, and require union construction labor. Communities make the final decision once state standards are set.

His campaign data-center plan, explaining why he would end data-center tax breaks.

“We shouldn’t be handing out more tax breaks for major corporations at the expense of Iowa taxpayers. These data centers are also getting huge sales tax breaks on everything inside the data center. That’s millions of dollars in additional revenue down the drain for our state. As governor, I will end these tax breaks and make sure we’re putting the needs of Iowa taxpayers, not major corporations, first.”

Campaign statement · Undated statement
Read the original source

Tax incentivesElectricity costsPublic disclosureJobs and laborLocal control

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

Iowa projects should model without state tax breaks and with full cost coverage. New projects face NDA bans, disclosure, hearings and union labor.

Which projects it hits
NDA ban, disclosure, hearings and union labor apply to new data centers. Ending tax breaks and full cost coverage are not limited to new projects. No size threshold.
Tax breaks and power costs
Tax breaks end, including sales-tax exemptions on equipment. Data centers pay 100% of infrastructure upgrades and energy costs.
Who has to act
The legislature, through a bill he would sign. Local governments make the final call once state standards exist.
Timing
No date given. His Republican opponent also backed ending the tax breaks, so repeal has support from both sides.
Sources and limits

This entry describes a stated position. It does not establish that the proposal has become law or that a project is approved.

Supporting sources

Evidence reviewed

Governor · November 3, 2026

Michigan

Compare state policies

Michigan by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

26 data centers in our facility database · 5 projects in our permit tracker · 6 local moratoriums on file (Prairieville Township, Charter Township of Comstock, Marengo Township, Big Rapids Charter Township, Almira Township, Gun Plain Charter Township).

The Associated Press called the race for Jocelyn Benson on November 4, 2026, 1:45 a.m. Eastern. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results

Democratic · Governor-elect

#

Jocelyn Benson

Moratorium on new data centers until guardrails are in place

Benson says she would put a moratorium on new data-center developments until rules protect local control and water, make data centers pay for their energy, and require community benefits agreements. Her plan bans tax breaks, requires open negotiation with communities, public hearings, disclosure and union contracts. She has not said whether the moratorium would be by executive order or law.

At the October 6 debate with John James, restating her own plan after his attack on her husband's data-center work.

“I've called for a moratorium on any new data center developments until we have real guardrails in place to protect local control, protect our water, require data centers to shoulder the burden of any energy usage and invest in community benefits agreements.”

Candidate statement · October 6, 2026
Read the reporting

Construction pausesLocal controlWater and environmentElectricity costsTax incentivesPublic disclosureJobs and labor

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

Treat new Michigan projects as paused until her guardrails are in law, including no tax breaks and full energy costs. Six Michigan townships already have local moratoriums.

Which projects it hits
Any new data-center development. Existing facilities are not named.
Tax breaks and power costs
No tax breaks. Data centers pay for their own power and sign community benefits agreements.
Who has to act
Not stated. The guardrails would likely need legislation.
Timing
No end date. It lasts until guardrails are in place.
Sources and limits

This entry describes a stated position. It does not establish that the proposal has become law or that a project is approved.

Supporting sources

Evidence reviewed

Governor · November 3, 2026

Minnesota

Compare state policies

Minnesota by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

31 data centers in our facility database · 15 projects in our permit tracker.

The Associated Press called the race for Amy Klobuchar on November 3, 2026, 11:07 p.m. Central. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results

Democratic-Farmer-Labor · Governor-elect

#

Amy Klobuchar

Disclosure law and local choice; no moratorium

Klobuchar would change state law to require disclosure of data-center negotiations, and says communities that do not want a data center should not have to take one. Her campaign says projects should cover 100% of their energy and grid costs and disclose power and water use before local approval (reported). She has not backed a moratorium.

MPR News interview on her agenda as governor; her second point on data centers, after local control.

“The second thing is state laws that make sure that if a data center is going to be built, you have to have full disclosures of what negotiations are going on. That is not in law right now, and that's something I would change.”

Candidate statement · August 12, 2026
Read the reporting

Public disclosureLocal controlElectricity costsWater and environment

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

Minnesota stays open where communities agree. Expect public negotiations and up-front disclosure of power and water use.

Which projects it hits
No moratorium. A community can say no to a project.
Tax breaks and power costs
Projects cover 100% of their energy and grid costs (reported). Nothing stated on the existing sales-tax exemption.
Who has to act
The legislature for the disclosure law. Local governments decide on each project.
Timing
No date given.
Sources and limits

This entry describes a stated position. It does not establish that the proposal has become law or that a project is approved.

Supporting sources

Evidence reviewed

Governor · November 3, 2026

Nevada

State policy guide

Already in place in Nevada

  • Governor Lombardo signed Executive Order 2026-005, adding school-tax, community-commitment, water and ratepayer conditions to data-center tax abatements. September 18, 2026

Nevada by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

42 data centers in our facility database · 7 projects in our permit tracker.

The Associated Press called the race for Aaron Ford on November 4, 2026, 1:46 a.m. Pacific. Defeated incumbent Joe Lombardo. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results

Democratic · Governor-elect

#

Aaron Ford

Stop new data-center tax breaks until audits; no rate increases

Ford says he would stop new data-center tax abatements until audits show past deals were honored. He says data centers cannot raise anyone's energy prices, must use their own energy and not fresh water, and must pay for grid upgrades. His plan extends Southern Nevada's evaporative-cooling ban statewide and requires public hearings on each project.

His campaign TV ad "Build", aired in Reno and Las Vegas, contrasting his plan with Lombardo's data-center tax breaks.

“I’m Aaron Ford. When I’m governor, I’ll put the brakes on tax giveaways to data centers. They’ll have to use their own energy, so your rates don’t go up, and not use our fresh water. Because you deserve a governor who looks out for you, not data centers.”

Campaign ad · September 2, 2026
Read the original source

Tax incentivesElectricity costsWater and environmentPublic disclosure

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

Nevada stays open to construction, but projects counting on new state tax abatements should expect them to stop. Plan for self-supplied energy and closed-loop cooling.

Which projects it hits
No construction ban. New tax abatements stop "going forward". Existing abatements are not clawed back in what he has said.
Tax breaks and power costs
New abatements stop until audits show compliance. Data centers must not raise anyone's rates, must use their own energy and pay to build out the grid.
Who has to act
The governor's economic development office (GOED) grants abatements and would run the audits. Statewide water rules may need legislation.
Timing
From the start of his term. The abatement stop lasts until audits are complete.
Sources and limits

This entry describes a stated position. It does not establish that the proposal has become law or that a project is approved.

Supporting sources

Evidence reviewed

Governor · November 3, 2026

New Mexico

Compare state policies

New Mexico by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

6 data centers in our facility database.

The Associated Press called the race for Deb Haaland on November 3, 2026. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results

Democratic · Governor-elect

#

Deb Haaland

Executive-order pause on new large projects until protections are adopted

Haaland says she would pause new large-scale data-center projects by executive order until the state adopts protections with enforcement. Her plan requires developers to build their own renewable power, use water-saving cooling with penalties for overuse, hire union and prevailing-wage labor, post decommissioning bonds and drop NDAs. State rules would be a floor, and counties could go further.

Press conference in Albuquerque announcing her data-center moratorium and accountability plan. "New projects" refers to data centers.

“Let me be clear: If elected governor, we will not move forward with any new projects until the state has adopted robust protections along with strong enforcement mechanisms”

Candidate statement · September 17, 2026
Read the reporting

Construction pausesElectricity costsWater and environmentJobs and laborPublic disclosureLocal controlTax incentives

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

Treat new large New Mexico projects as paused from the start of her term until the legislature and regulators finish the rules. County moratoriums would stay in place.

Which projects it hits
New large-scale data-center projects. "Large-scale" is not defined. Treatment of projects already under way is not stated.
Tax breaks and power costs
Developers build their own renewable power to prevent rate increases. State business aid only for projects that exceed the guardrails. Decommissioning bonds and clawbacks.
Who has to act
Her executive order for the pause. The legislature and state rulemaking for the framework. Counties may be stricter.
Timing
On taking office (reported). No end date. It lasts until protections and enforcement are in place.
Sources and limits

This entry describes a stated position. It does not establish that the proposal has become law or that a project is approved.

Supporting sources

Evidence reviewed

Governor · November 3, 2026

Ohio

State policy guide

Ohio by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

79 data centers in our facility database · 21 projects in our permit tracker, 1 flagged notable.

The Associated Press called the race for Amy Acton on November 3, 2026, 10:49 p.m. Eastern. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results

Democratic · Governor-elect

#

Amy Acton

Conditional moratorium with utility and labor requirements

Acton supports a conditional moratorium: new data centers wait until they cover 100% of their gas, water and electricity costs, build with union labor, operate transparently and meet environmental standards. She would end data-center NDAs, rein in long-term tax incentives with clawbacks, and favor former industrial sites over farmland. In September she asked the legislature to pass the moratorium.

Campaign release announcing her support for a conditional moratorium.

“As governor, I will take immediate action and support a conditional moratorium on data centers to ensure they cover one hundred percent of their utility costs, exclusively build with union labor, operate with full transparency, adhere to Ohio’s environmental standards, support the needs of local communities, and bring jobs to former industrial areas that have been left behind”

Campaign statement · July 27, 2026
Read the original source

Construction pausesTax incentivesElectricity costsWater and environmentPublic disclosureLand and sitingJobs and labor

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

If adopted, projects would need to account for utility-cost coverage, union labor and industrial-site restrictions before the proposed pause could be lifted.

Which projects it hits
New data centers that do not meet her conditions (reported). Brownfields and former industrial sites are favored over farmland.
Tax breaks and power costs
Developers cover 100% of utility costs. Long-term tax incentives tightened, with clawbacks. She does not clearly call for ending the sales-tax exemption.
Who has to act
She asked the legislature to pass the moratorium. It is unclear which parts she could do alone.
Timing
"Immediate action" as governor, per her pledge. Each project can proceed once it meets the conditions.
Sources and limits

This entry describes a stated position. It does not establish that the proposal has become law or that a project is approved.

Supporting sources

Evidence reviewed

Governor · November 3, 2026

South Carolina

State policy guide

South Carolina by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

14 data centers in our facility database · 3 projects in our permit tracker, 1 flagged notable.

The Associated Press called the race for Alan Wilson on November 3, 2026. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results

Republican · Governor-elect

#

Alan Wilson

No moratorium; approved projects generate their own energy

Wilson opposes a statewide moratorium. He wants a state law setting guardrails, with communities choosing whether to approve a project. Any data center a community approves would have to generate its own energy, pay its own way and provide community benefits.

October 6 debate with Jermaine Johnson, explaining why he opposes a statewide moratorium.

“If you are a community who sees the value or the benefit of a data center, then we should provide a statutory and regulatory framework, guardrails if you will, that would require that data center, if they come to your community and if you approve it, that data center would have to generate their own energy”

Candidate statement · October 6, 2026
Read the reporting

Electricity costsLocal control

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

South Carolina stays open where local officials approve. Plan for on-site or dedicated generation rather than drawing on the shared grid.

Which projects it hits
New projects a community approves. No statewide moratorium. No size threshold or treatment of existing projects stated.
Tax breaks and power costs
Approved data centers generate their own energy and pay their own way. Nothing stated on tax breaks.
Who has to act
The legislature, through a "statutory and regulatory framework" he describes. Local governments decide on each project.
Timing
No date given.
Sources and limits

This entry describes a stated position. It does not establish that the proposal has become law or that a project is approved.

Supporting sources

Evidence reviewed

Governor · November 3, 2026

Tennessee

State policy guide

Tennessee by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

22 data centers in our facility database · 17 projects in our permit tracker.

The Associated Press called the race for Marsha Blackburn on November 3, 2026, 11:43 p.m. Central. Won with about 45.5% to 43.0%, per Secretary of State figures reported by WSMV. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results

Republican · Governor-elect

#

Marsha Blackburn

Ratepayer protection plan, local choice and water disclosure

Blackburn says she would protect ratepayers so they are not left paying for data centers, and wants the legislature to pass a ratepayer protection plan. She says local communities should decide if and where data centers go, that they do not belong in the middle of towns, and that builders should disclose expected water use.

WSMV interview on how candidates would handle data centers, on utility costs.

“I do think there is something that the legislature should do and I support doing. And that is having a rate payer protection plan in place. And that would make certain that citizens know their water utility rates, electric power rates are not going to go up with the advent of any kind of data center, that the data center is going to pay for that cost”

Candidate statement · October 26, 2026
Read the reporting

Electricity costsWater and environmentLocal controlPublic disclosureLand and siting

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

Tennessee stays open, with costs pushed onto developers and siting kept away from town centers and neighborhoods. Expect water-use disclosure up front.

Which projects it hits
No statewide pause. Projects in town centers or neighborhoods would face opposition. Local communities decide if and where.
Tax breaks and power costs
A ratepayer protection plan so data centers pay the costs they create. Nothing stated on tax breaks.
Who has to act
She says the legislature should pass the ratepayer plan. Local governments decide siting. TVA remains the main power supplier.
Timing
No date given.
Sources and limits

This entry describes a stated position. It does not establish that the proposal has become law or that a project is approved.

Supporting sources

Evidence reviewed

Governor · November 3, 2026

Texas

State policy guide

Already in place in Texas

  • Governor Abbott directed the state environmental agency (TCEQ) to halt data-center permits until the grid operator (ERCOT) finishes its audit. This records the directive. It is not a finding that every permit stopped. September 21, 2026

Texas by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

388 data centers in our facility database · 173 projects in our permit tracker, 65 flagged notable.

Notable filings we track:

  • Undisclosed developer, Fort Worth, Tarrant County: 196 MW (capacity stated in the filing). Building permit issued, August 31, 2026.
  • QTS, San Antonio, Bexar County: 9 MW (capacity stated in the filing). Building permit issued, March 31, 2026.

The Associated Press called the race for Gina Hinojosa on November 3, 2026, 10:17 p.m. Central. Defeated incumbent Greg Abbott, who conceded. First Democratic governor of Texas since 1995. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results

Democratic · Governor-elect

#

Gina Hinojosa

Moratorium on new data centers and approvals until the legislature acts

Hinojosa says she will issue a moratorium on new data centers and new approvals as governor. It would last until the legislature passes laws giving communities a say and protecting water and electricity costs. She also targets the data-center sales-tax break, which she says costs Texas more than $1 billion a year, and the use of nondisclosure agreements.

Answering a Washington Examiner reporter at an Austin press event, held after Abbott declined to debate her.

“When I am governor, I will issue a moratorium on any new data centers and any approvals for any data centers until we can pass laws to protect Texans, so Texans can have a seat at the table to decide if and how data centers come into our community.”

Candidate statement · October 15, 2026
Read the reporting

Construction pausesLocal controlTax incentivesWater and environmentElectricity costsPublic disclosure

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

Plan for a statewide stop on new Texas data-center approvals from her first days in office. Restarting would depend on new laws on local consent, water and power costs. Separately, Abbott’s September permit halt is already in place.

Which projects it hits
New data centers and new approvals. Big Country Politics reports that projects already under construction would not be stopped. That detail is reported, not in her own words, so confirm it before relying on it.
Tax breaks and power costs
She targets the data-center sales-tax break, which she says costs Texas more than $1 billion a year. Reporting says she would ask lawmakers to end data-center incentives and make developers show households will not pay more for power or water.
Who has to act
Her own executive order for the moratorium. The legislature then has to pass the protections that end it, and any tax-break repeal.
Timing
At the start of her term, by her own pledge. No end date. It lasts until laws pass.
Sources and limits

Evidence reviewed

Governor · November 3, 2026

Wisconsin

State policy guide

Wisconsin by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

10 data centers in our facility database · 1 projects in our permit tracker.

The Associated Press called the race for David Crowley on November 3, 2026, 10:28 p.m. Central. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results

Democratic · Governor-elect

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David Crowley

Pause during environmental review

Crowley supports keeping Wisconsin's current pause until the state DNR finishes its court-ordered environmental review, and says data-center rules will be his first focus with the legislature. He would sign a bill reforming data-center sales-tax exemptions and says communities that do not want a data center will not get one. He backed the pause in October after opposing a moratorium in August.

WPR interview, asked: "Would those guardrails entail a pause, a statewide moratorium?"

“I think right now we are effectively in a de facto moratorium. I know that there was recently a lawsuit, and now we’re going to have our Department of Natural Resources conducting an environmental analysis about what these data centers can actually do to our environment, and so I believe that we should continue to have a pause while this process plays out.”

Candidate statement · October 22, 2026
Read the reporting

Construction pausesTax incentivesLocal control

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

If adopted, the pause and tax changes could alter project schedules and incentive assumptions. His description of a de facto moratorium is his assessment, not our finding of an enacted statewide ban.

Which projects it hits
Data centers generally, while the DNR review runs. It is unclear whether projects already under way are covered (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel).
Tax breaks and power costs
He would sign a bill reforming data-center sales-tax exemptions. His campaign also lists developer-funded grid upgrades and renewable power.
Who has to act
The DNR runs the environmental review. He and the legislature write the rules. Communities decide whether to host.
Timing
The pause lasts until the DNR review ends; the review is due by January 31, 2028 (reported).
Sources and limits

This entry describes a stated position. It does not establish that the proposal has become law or that a project is approved.

Supporting sources

Evidence reviewed

Governor · November 3, 2026

Wyoming

Compare state policies

Wyoming by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

8 data centers in our facility database · 2 projects in our permit tracker.

The Associated Press called the race for Eric Barlow on November 3, 2026, 7:00 p.m. Mountain. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results

Republican · Governor-elect

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Eric Barlow

Growth with water, power-cost and community protections

Barlow supports data centers where communities can support them, as long as they pay their own energy costs and protect water. He opposes a moratorium. He sees the state's role as protecting water, preventing higher electricity rates and helping communities get truthful information.

Wyoming PBS debate, asked by Wyoming Public Media whether Wyoming is better off with data centers.

“We make sure our communities can actually support them, and if our communities have concerns, the companies that want to do this have to answer those concerns. And finally, they require a lot of energy as well. Wyoming's an energy state, but that doesn't mean the rest of us should be paying for their energy. They have to pay their own way. If they can do those things, then we don't say no.”

Candidate statement · October 14, 2026
Read the original source

Electricity costsWater and environmentLocal control

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

Credible resource plans and community engagement would be central to his stated support.

Which projects it hits
No moratorium. Projects go ahead where the local community agrees and the site can support them.
Tax breaks and power costs
Data centers pay their own energy costs so other customers do not. Nothing stated on tax breaks.
Who has to act
Local governments decide. The state protects water and rates.
Timing
No date given.
Sources and limits

This entry describes a stated position. It does not establish that the proposal has become law or that a project is approved.

Supporting sources

Evidence reviewed

1 state

Not yet called

The Associated Press had not called these races when we checked. The leading candidates are shown until a winner is declared.

Governor · November 3, 2026 · Not yet called

Kansas

Compare state policies

Kansas by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

11 data centers in our facility database.

The Associated Press had not called this race when we checked on November 4. Holscher led Masterson by about 5,500 votes, roughly 0.5% of the vote, with mail and provisional ballots still being counted. Both leading candidates are shown until a winner is declared. Official results · Ballot source

Democratic

#

Cindy Holscher

Pause new data centers until firm guardrails exist

Holscher says she would pause new data centers until Kansas sets guardrails protecting water and energy use, ratepayers, local input and jobs. Reporting says she wants a state closed-loop cooling requirement and union construction labor. She voted for the 2025 data-center sales-tax exemption and now says she regrets it; she has not said whether she would repeal it.

Script of her campaign TV ad "Sunflowers", released September 30.

“This field of our iconic Kansas sunflowers is under threat because Big Tech wants to bring in a giant data center. Without protections, that could raise our electricity costs, put our farmland and water supplies at risk, all while taxpayers foot the bill. As governor, I’ll hit pause on data centers until we can set up firm guardrails to protect our communities, our farms, our jobs, and our budgets.”

Campaign ad · September 30, 2026
Read the original source

Construction pausesWater and environmentElectricity costsLocal controlJobs and labor

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

New Kansas projects could wait for guardrails. The pause is framed as temporary, not a ban, and the existing sales-tax exemption may stay.

Which projects it hits
New data centers. Her issue page refers to large corporate data centers. No size threshold.
Tax breaks and power costs
Ratepayer protections. She has not said whether she would repeal the 20-year sales-tax exemption.
Who has to act
Not stated. A Republican legislature would likely shape any guardrails.
Timing
No end date. It lasts until guardrails are in place.
Sources and limits

This entry describes a stated position. It does not establish that the proposal has become law or that a project is approved.

Supporting sources

Evidence reviewed

Republican

#

Ty Masterson

Local decisions, ratepayer protections in law, no moratorium

Masterson opposes a statewide moratorium and says local communities should make the final decisions on data centers. His ratepayer pledge would write into law that the Kansas Corporation Commission confirm in every rate case that each data center pays its full power costs, and require data-center backup power to support the grid in emergencies. He defends the 2025 data-center sales-tax exemption he voted for and opposes eminent domain for data centers.

Campaign release launching his Kansas Ratepayer Protection Pledge on data centers, issued before the August primary.

“But folks build here on our terms or they don’t build here. This pledge protects our land and resources, protects families’ utilities, and it keeps China out of our grid. And as I have always said, the final decisions on building should be left to the local communities themselves.”

Campaign statement · June 28, 2026
Read the original source

Local controlElectricity costsWater and environmentTax incentivesLand and siting

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

Kansas would stay open where local governments approve. The existing 20-year sales-tax exemption would stay, with stricter rules in law on who pays for power.

Which projects it hits
No statewide moratorium. Local governments make the final call. He has not addressed existing projects or size limits.
Tax breaks and power costs
Keeps the 2025 20-year sales-tax exemption for projects investing $250 million and creating 20 jobs. The Corporation Commission would have to confirm in each rate case that data centers pay their full power costs (reported).
Who has to act
The legislature, to write the rate-case standard into law. The Corporation Commission applies it. Local governments decide on siting.
Timing
As governor, with no date given.
Sources and limits

Evidence reviewed

9 states

Re-elected governors: what stays in place

The sitting governor won another term, so current policy should carry on. Open a state for the quote and full project impact.

Arizona

Katie Hobbs · Democratic · Re-electedNo statewide pause. New data-center tax-relief applications are frozen from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2029.Quote and project impact

Arizona by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

144 data centers in our facility database · 99 projects in our permit tracker, 26 flagged notable.

Notable filings we track:

  • NTT, Mesa, Maricopa County: 308 MW (generator nameplate, summed from stated ratings). Building permit issued, October 27, 2025.
  • QTS, Phoenix, Maricopa County: 82.5 MW (estimated from a generator count, low confidence). Building permit issued, June 9, 2026.

The Associated Press called the race for Katie Hobbs on November 4, 2026, 1:25 a.m. Mountain. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results · State policy guide

Democratic · Re-elected

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Katie Hobbs

Opposes a statewide construction pause; wants cost protections

Hobbs rejected a statewide construction moratorium while calling for sustainable projects that cover their costs without raising household utility bills. The 2026 budget law she signed already freezes new data-center tax-relief applications through June 30, 2029.

Press conference, asked about calls from Attorney General Mayes and others for a statewide pause on data-center construction.

“I don't think a statewide moratorium is the answer. I think there are places where data centers make sense, and they're an important part of the high-tech economy that we're growing here. We need to make sure that they are doing that sustainably. That data centers pay for themselves. That they're not raising utility costs on Arizonans”

Candidate statement · September 3, 2026
Read the reporting

Construction pausesElectricity costsTax incentives

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

Arizona stays open to construction, but a new project cannot count on state data-center tax relief before July 2029. Expect cost and sustainability conditions on utility service.

Which projects it hits
No statewide construction pause. New and pending projects can proceed through normal approvals.
Tax breaks and power costs
New data centers cannot qualify for state tax relief: applications are frozen from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2029 under the law she signed. Existing certifications are not addressed. Projects must also cover their own costs without raising household bills.
Who has to act
The tax-relief freeze is already law. Rate protections run through utility regulators.
Timing
The freeze runs through June 30, 2029. Her stance carries into a second term if she wins.
Official actions and sources

Documented official actions

Evidence reviewed

Connecticut

Ned Lamont · Democratic / Working Families · Re-electedOpposes large AI campuses because of power costs. Smaller and self-powered projects get case-by-case review.Quote and project impact

Connecticut by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

12 data centers in our facility database.

The Associated Press called the race for Ned Lamont on November 3, 2026, about 9:20 p.m. Eastern. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results · Compare state policies

Democratic / Working Families · Re-elected

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Ned Lamont

Reject hyperscale facilities; consider smaller or self-supplied projects

Says Connecticut is unsuitable for massive AI data centers because of electricity costs, while defending incentives for smaller enterprise IT facilities. He allows case-by-case review of projects with their own power and water and recognizes local zoning decisions. His position has hardened: in his February State of the State he called for slowing new data centers unless they add their own generation; by September he said the state has said no to all hyperscalers.

News 12 Connecticut interview on whether data centers should get tax breaks.

“We've said no to all those hyperscalers, which is where I think most people are concerned. Hyperscalers are the big things; they've built something like 40 of them in northern Virginia. Drives up the price for electricity.”

Candidate statement · September 4, 2026
Read the reporting

Electricity costsWater and environmentLocal controlTax incentives

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

A large AI proposal would face strong opposition under this position; smaller facilities and self-supplied projects require separate assessment.

Which projects it hits
Large AI and hyperscale campuses would face strong opposition. Smaller enterprise facilities and projects with their own power and water get case-by-case review.
Tax breaks and power costs
He defends incentives for smaller facilities. High electricity costs are his stated reason against large campuses.
Who has to act
His administration on state approvals. Local zoning boards still decide siting.
Timing
Current policy as incumbent. Expect little change in a new term.
Sources and limits

This entry describes a stated position. It does not establish that the proposal has become law or that a project is approved.

Supporting sources

Evidence reviewed

Illinois

JB Pritzker · Democratic · Re-electedNew state incentive deals paused since July 1, 2026. Existing deals honored.Quote and project impact

Illinois by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

194 data centers in our facility database · 63 projects in our permit tracker, 12 flagged notable · 1 local moratorium on file (City of Mattoon).

Notable filings we track:

  • QTS, Chicago, Cook County: 317,000 sq ft. Building permit issued, August 3, 2026.
  • CoreSite, Chicago, Cook County. Building permit issued, January 21, 2026.

The Associated Press called the race for JB Pritzker on November 3, 2026, 7:02 p.m. Central. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results · State policy guide

Democratic · Re-elected

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JB Pritzker

Pause incentive agreements while setting resource standards

Directed a pause in processing new incentive agreements from July 1 while honoring prior agreements. In the October 13 debate, he conditioned further data centers on their own clean energy, closed-loop water systems and local approval.

WTTW debate, answering Darren Bailey's attack on his data-center tax breaks and rising energy prices.

“We should have no more data centers, unless they bring their own clean energy, bring their own closed-loop water systems, and let local governments and people living locally to decide whether or not they want a data center in their local communities.”

Candidate statement · October 13, 2026
Read the reporting

Tax incentivesElectricity costsWater and environmentPublic disclosureLocal control

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

The documented action concerns incentive agreements, not every construction permit; proposed safeguards require separate implementation checks.

Which projects it hits
New state incentive agreements are on hold. Existing agreements are honored. Construction permits are not paused.
Tax breaks and power costs
No new incentive deals while the pause lasts. Future projects must bring their own clean energy and closed-loop water systems.
Who has to act
His commerce department already acted. The new standards would need legislation or rules. Local approval is required.
Timing
Already in effect since July 1, 2026. Expect it to continue in a new term.
Official actions and sources

Documented official actions

Supporting sources

Evidence reviewed

Maryland

Wes Moore · Democratic · Re-electedSeptember 2026 order: state review for projects of 25 MW or more. Sales-tax break repeal proposed, not law.Quote and project impact

Maryland by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

18 data centers in our facility database · 27 projects in our permit tracker.

The Associated Press called the race for Wes Moore on November 3, 2026, about 8 p.m. Eastern, as polls closed. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results · Compare state policies

Democratic · Re-elected

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Wes Moore

State review, safeguards and proposed tax repeal

His September order creates a task force, public project records and review standards for proposed facilities of at least 25 MW seeking state action. He also promises to seek legislative repeal of the data-center sales-tax exemption; that announced repeal is not enacted by the order.

State House news conference on his executive order. Asked about a statewide moratorium, he said that power rests with counties, not the governor.

“We don't have that authority, but what we do want to do is making sure that we are clear and transparent with our local jurisdictions about what type of elements need to be in place in order to receive state support.”

Candidate statement · September 23, 2026
Read the reporting

Electricity costsWater and environmentLocal controlPublic disclosureTax incentives

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

Qualifying projects face state review; changing the exemption would require further legislative action.

Which projects it hits
Projects of 25 MW or more that need state action go through a new review, with public records. No pause.
Tax breaks and power costs
He wants to repeal the data-center sales-tax exemption. That repeal is not law yet.
Who has to act
His September 2026 order is already in force. The tax repeal needs the legislature.
Timing
Review rules apply now. Watch the next session for the tax repeal.
Sources and limits

This entry describes a stated position. It does not establish that the proposal has become law or that a project is approved.

Supporting sources

Evidence reviewed

Massachusetts

Maura Healey · Democratic · Re-electedSeptember 2026 order: no state approvals without local consent. New sales-tax break applications paused.Quote and project impact

Massachusetts by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

22 data centers in our facility database · 63 projects in our permit tracker, 6 flagged notable.

The Associated Press called the race for Maura Healey on November 3, 2026, one minute after polls closed. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results · Compare state policies

Democratic · Re-elected

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Maura Healey

Local approval and resource protections

Her September executive order directs state agencies not to advance projects without local approval and sets clean-energy, water and transparency requirements. Her administration also paused new sales-tax-exemption applications; the order offers a fee mechanism for projects without their own clean energy.

State House press conference announcing Executive Order 658, explaining its ratepayer protection fund.

“We can't have data centers coming in and taking energy away from the rest of us. This is another way to make sure that they use clean energy, that we protect and insulate people from increased costs, and that every dollar collected from a data center on this will go back to ratepayers.”

Candidate statement · September 8, 2026
Read the reporting

Local controlElectricity costsWater and environmentPublic disclosureTax incentives

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

Projects seeking state approval would face the administration's local-consent and resource safeguards.

Which projects it hits
State agencies will not advance a project unless the host community says yes. Clean energy, water and transparency rules apply.
Tax breaks and power costs
New sales-tax exemption applications are paused. Projects without their own clean energy can pay a fee instead.
Who has to act
Her September 2026 executive order already directs state agencies. Local approval is the gate.
Timing
Already in effect. Expect it to continue in a new term.
Sources and limits

This entry describes a stated position. It does not establish that the proposal has become law or that a project is approved.

Supporting sources

Evidence reviewed

Nebraska

Jim Pillen · Republican · Re-electedundefinedQuote and project impact

Nebraska by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

9 data centers in our facility database · 35 projects in our permit tracker, 8 flagged notable.

Notable filings we track:

  • Undisclosed developer, Sarpy County: 5 MW (capacity stated in the filing). Building permit issued, November 25, 2025.
  • Google, Omaha, Sarpy County. Operating.

The Associated Press called the race for Jim Pillen on November 4, 2026, 1:53 a.m. Central. Lynne Walz led early returns before Pillen pulled ahead by about seven points. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results · Compare state policies

Republican · Re-elected

#

Jim Pillen

Growth without new incentives and with resource protections

Pillen has already barred data centers from ImagiNE Nebraska tax credits by executive order and says it is not a moratorium. He says the state can handle current demand, will protect ratepayers and water, and expects future projects to provide community benefits up front. A state task force on water and power meets in November to set further guardrails.

Answering reporters after an October 29 campaign event in Fremont, asked whether Nebraska's grid and water can handle data-center growth.

“We don’t need to give tax incentives away like we have. And I’m a believer that anybody that comes and will do big projects, that they need to be givers, not takers, and be doing community enhancement programs on the front side.”

Candidate statement · October 29, 2026
Read the reporting

Tax incentivesElectricity costsWater and environmentLocal control

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

Future projects would be expected to demonstrate community benefits and avoid shifting resource costs to residents.

Which projects it hits
No moratorium. Future projects must protect ratepayers and water and show community benefits up front.
Tax breaks and power costs
No ImagiNE Nebraska tax credits for data centers, under his July executive order.
Who has to act
Already done by executive order. A state task force sets further guardrails; related legislation is expected next session.
Timing
The executive order is in effect. The task force meets in November 2026.
Official actions and sources

Documented official actions

Evidence reviewed

New York

Kathy C. Hochul · Democratic / Working Families · Re-electedExecutive Order 62, July 2026: state environmental permits not yet complete for data centers of 50 MW or more are on hold.Quote and project impact

New York by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

49 data centers in our facility database · 26 projects in our permit tracker, 3 flagged notable · 1 local moratorium on file (Town of Orangetown).

The Associated Press called the race for Kathy C. Hochul on November 3, 2026, about 9 p.m. Eastern. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results · Compare state policies

Democratic / Working Families · Re-elected

#

Kathy C. Hochul

Temporary state environmental-permit pause

Hochul’s Executive Order 62 holds state environmental permit applications not yet deemed complete for data centers of 50 MW or more, while the state develops standards. Local permits and complete applications are exempt. She is also pursuing legislation to repeal sales-tax exemptions for massive data centers.

Her statement announcing Executive Order 62, the statewide pause on new hyperscale data centers of 50 MW or more.

“New York has always been at the forefront of innovation and change but we've also always guaranteed that New Yorkers benefit. As data center development threatens to hike up utility bills, deplete our natural resources, and create uncertainty for New Yorkers, it's my responsibility to take action and lead.”

Official statement · July 14, 2026
Read the original source

Construction pausesElectricity costsWater and environmentLocal controlJobs and labor

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

A 50 MW-plus New York project without a complete state environmental application waits for the new standards. Model without the sales-tax exemption if her repeal passes.

Which projects it hits
Data centers of 50 MW or more whose state environmental permit applications were not deemed complete by July 14, 2026. Complete applications and local permits are not affected.
Tax breaks and power costs
She is pursuing legislation to repeal sales-tax exemptions for massive data centers. That repeal is not law yet.
Who has to act
Her Executive Order 62 is already in force. The legislature would have to pass the tax repeal.
Timing
In effect since July 14, 2026. It holds until the state finishes its environmental impact statement.
Official actions and sources

Documented official actions

  • Issued Executive Order 62. It holds discretionary state environmental (DEC) permit applications not deemed complete by July 14, 2026 for data centers that consume or can consume 50 MW or more, until the state finishes a generic environmental impact statement. Local permits are not covered. Executive Order 62, July 14, 2026

Supporting sources

Evidence reviewed

Oregon

Tina Kotek · Democratic / Working Families · Re-electedState-land requests and new pollution permits for data centers paused through July 1, 2027.Quote and project impact

Oregon by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

46 data centers in our facility database · 3 projects in our permit tracker, 2 flagged notable.

The Associated Press called the race for Tina Kotek on November 4, 2026, 12:49 a.m. Pacific. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results · Compare state policies

Democratic / Working Families · Re-elected

#

Tina Kotek

Temporary pause and statewide safeguards

Kotek supports pausing new data-center development until Oregon establishes protections for utility costs, clean energy, air, water and union jobs. As governor, she has separately paused specified state-land approvals and directed a pause on new or expanded facilities’ pollution permits while preparing 2027 legislation.

Her statement announcing the pause on state-land requests for data centers through July 1, 2027.

“I am taking this action because the state should not be moving forward with new data center projects on public land while we are still working to understand and address those impacts. Oregonians deserve a statewide approach that protects our communities, respects our natural resources, and makes sure state government is acting in the public interest.”

Official statement · September 8, 2026
Read the original source

Construction pausesElectricity costsWater and environmentJobs and laborLocal controlLand and siting

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

Projects needing the affected approvals may face delays; broader standards remain subject to future action.

Which projects it hits
State-land requests and new or expanded pollution permits for data centers are already paused. She supports a wider statewide moratorium.
Tax breaks and power costs
She wants protections for utility costs, clean energy and union jobs in 2027 legislation.
Who has to act
Her directives to state agencies are in force. The wider rules need the legislature.
Timing
Current pauses run through July 1, 2027 unless replaced sooner.
Official actions and sources

Documented official actions

Supporting sources

Evidence reviewed

Pennsylvania

Josh Shapiro · Democratic · Re-electedAugust 2026 order: data centers off fast-track permitting. State GRID standards apply.Quote and project impact

Pennsylvania by the numbers · Data Center Scouts data

56 data centers in our facility database · 21 projects in our permit tracker.

The Associated Press called the race for Josh Shapiro on November 3, 2026, 8:01 p.m. Eastern. Results are unofficial until the state certifies them. AP race call · Official results · State policy guide

Democratic · Re-elected

#

Josh Shapiro

Development subject to GRID standards and local approvals

Uses the state’s GRID framework to condition development on utility-cost, environmental, workforce and community requirements. His August executive order changed permit procedures, removed data centers from fast-track permitting and directed tighter links between incentives and GRID compliance.

ABC27 debate with Stacy Garrity, asked why his data-center executive order stopped short of a moratorium.

“Most importantly, you have to earn the support of the local community first. They have to pass an ordinance or a resolution. It's got to include local labor, and it must include a local benefits agreement. Only then, if a local community supports it, will the commonwealth even consider the permits.”

Candidate statement · October 7, 2026
Read the reporting

Tax incentivesElectricity costsWater and environmentLocal controlPublic disclosureJobs and labor

What it means for a project · Data Center Scouts interpretation

Projects seeking state permits should verify which GRID agreement, local approvals and incentive conditions apply to their proposal before relying on a development schedule.

Which projects it hits
No pause. Projects must meet the state's GRID standards and local approvals. Data centers are off the fast-track permit program.
Tax breaks and power costs
Incentives are tied to GRID compliance on utility costs, environment and workforce.
Who has to act
His August 2026 executive order already changed permitting. Local governments still approve sites.
Timing
Already in effect. Expect it to continue in a new term.
Official actions and sources

Documented official actions

Supporting sources

Evidence reviewed

From a statement to a decision

What could change for a project?

A campaign statement is a signal to investigate. Check the actual rule, decision-maker and effective date before changing a development plan.

01

Identify the proposal

Is the candidate discussing new construction, tax relief, power connections or a particular site? Check the size threshold, exceptions and duration.

02

Check who can act

Look for the proposed executive action, legislation, utility proceeding or local vote. A governor's pledge alone does not establish authority over every approval.

03

Follow the decision

Track whether the proposal becomes an order, enacted law, tariff or local ordinance. Keep the campaign quote and the later decision as separate records.

Compare state development conditionsCheck documented local restrictionsExplore project filings
About the evidence

A record you can check.

Reviewed November 4, 2026. Source dates are shown with each quote. An undated campaign page is labeled as such.

Who is included

This guide covers 26 of the 36 state governor races on the November 3, 2026 ballot. We left out seven states with almost no data centers: fewer than five facilities in the Colocation Scout database, cross-checked against PeeringDB. Those are Alaska, Hawaii, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, South Dakota and Vermont. Each state shows the winner as called by the Associated Press, linked to the call and to the state's results page; results are unofficial until certified. Before the election, we chose who to research from Polymarket: for each state we took the two leading candidates in Polymarket's winner market. Any finalist under a 10% chance was then left out. Minor-party, write-in and lower-polling candidates are not profiled. Territories are not included. We also left out Arkansas, Idaho and Oklahoma, where we could not verify a quote that clearly states the candidate's plan in context. Each race names the finalist who fell below the line and links the market and the official ballot. A missing position means our reviewed sources did not establish one. It does not mean the candidate has never spoken about data centers.

Our market data

Facility counts come from the Colocation Scout facility database (data as of September 30, 2026). They include operational, under-construction and planned sites, and undercount private hyperscale campuses. Project counts and notable filings come from the Data Center Scouts permit tracker, which covers selected counties. A state with no tracker line is not a state with no projects. Capacity is shown as the filing states it. Generator nameplate and estimates are labeled and are not IT capacity. Naming a project is not a claim that space is available in it.

How statements are sourced

We prefer campaign policy pages, direct statements and official releases. When a quote comes from reporting, the entry identifies that source type. Each quote is one continuous passage of up to about three sentences, with a note on where it was said, so it keeps its context. We never stitch separate remarks together. Summaries explain material conditions. We do not use one candidate's characterization of an opponent as evidence of that opponent's position.

Positions, actions and our interpretation

The position heading summarizes the cited material. Topic labels identify subjects addressed, not ratings. The "What it means for a project" box is Data Center Scouts' interpretation. It covers which projects a position would hit, tax breaks and power costs, who has to act, and timing. Documented official actions have their own dated source links. Neither a campaign pledge nor a past action establishes the present approval status of a particular project.

Updates and corrections

This page is maintained through editorial review, not a live election feed. Race calls were checked on November 4, 2026 and will be updated if a call changes or a state certifies a different result. New statements should be added with their dates and sources; older material should remain identifiable. Results and office transitions require separate verification. To flag a correction, call 844-506-2299 with the candidate name, statement date and original source.