As Wisconsin gears up for its next gubernatorial election, the Democratic candidates are setting the stage with a strong focus on climate change and the regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) data centers. In a virtual forum organized by Citizen Action of Wisconsin, these issues took center stage as seven Democratic hopefuls outlined their plans for the state’s future.
The forum, featuring prominent figures like Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez and former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, provided a platform for candidates to distinguish themselves ahead of the upcoming primary. The discussion ranged across various topics, with a particular emphasis on environmental policies and the rapid expansion of data centers across the state.
Climate Change Takes Priority
Robert Kraig, the Executive Director of Citizen Action of Wisconsin, underscored the urgency of addressing climate change by stating that the U.S. must reduce greenhouse gas emissions by half by the early 2030s. Candidates were asked to share their strategies for achieving these targets if elected governor.
Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley emphasized his county’s efforts to reduce emissions and proposed annual greenhouse gas reporting and “carbon scoring” for major projects. He also advocated for a “Green New Deal” for public schools to enhance renewable energy usage.
Madison state Rep. Francesca Hong supports a carbon tax and aims for Wisconsin to source all electricity from renewables by 2040. She also proposed a “green state bank” to finance clean energy projects. In alignment, Madison state Sen. Kelda Roys suggested a public banking option for financing geothermal and solar initiatives in schools.
Missy Hughes, former CEO of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp., highlighted her past efforts with Organic Valley to implement renewable energy solutions. Mandela Barnes touted his leadership on Gov. Tony Evers’ Task Force on Climate Change, while Joel Brennan pointed to his role in crafting Wisconsin’s Clean Energy Plan.
Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez stressed the need for more electric vehicle charging stations and a transition to carbon-neutral energy, asserting that state leadership is crucial in the absence of federal action.
Regulating AI Data Centers
All seven candidates expressed concern over the influx of AI data centers, advocating for stricter regulations. They discussed the need for ensuring these centers are built by union workers and powered by renewable energy sources.
Mandela Barnes criticized the minimal regulation of tech companies and called for comprehensive studies before new centers are established. Kelda Roys emphasized local government control over data center approvals and argued that they should finance grid upgrades instead of burdening residents.
Sara Rodriguez and David Crowley also called for data centers to pay higher electricity rates. Crowley proposed community benefit agreements and a mandate for renewable energy sourcing. Joel Brennan lamented the lack of legislative guardrails accompanying tax credits for data center development.
Missy Hughes highlighted the necessity of a plan to decommission obsolete data centers responsibly, and Francesca Hong advocated for a statewide pause on new projects until appropriate legislation is passed.
A recent Marquette University Law School poll indicated that a significant portion of Wisconsin voters remain undecided about the Democratic primary, with 65 percent unsure of their choice. Among those with a preference, Francesca Hong and Mandela Barnes lead with 14 percent and 11 percent support, respectively.
