Mike Rogers Advocates for Data Center Moratorium in Senate Race

Former Rep. Mike Rogers, the GOP nominee in Michigan’s Senate race, has proposed a one-year halt on data center construction. This move underscores the contentious nature of server warehouses driving the AI boom. Rogers expressed his desire for a moratorium, emphasizing the need for a fair and transparent approval process prioritizing local communities.

Rogers clarified his stance against a federal ban but stressed that Michigan requires better safeguards to maintain community control, prevent utility price hikes, protect water resources, and avoid pay-to-play practices. His Democratic opponent, Abdul El-Sayed, has previously addressed the data center issue by outlining specific ‘terms of engagement’ for new projects. These terms include requirements for developers to cover increased energy costs and use closed-loop cooling systems.

El-Sayed highlighted the importance of federal-level guardrails during a July appearance alongside local organizers at a data center site. He stated, “Unless and until we have those terms of engagement at the federal level, I stand with local and state elected officials saying that we cannot approve any more of these until we have federal level guardrails.”

Michigan’s Senate race is crucial for both parties hoping to secure a majority in the next Congress. Democrats must gain four seats to achieve this, assuming they retain the Michigan seat held by retiring Sen. Gary Peters (D). Data centers have become increasingly significant in midterm races nationwide as public concern grows over rapid AI infrastructure expansion.

In other technology-related news, a man dressed as Darth Vader defended Flock cameras during a San Diego City Council meeting, asserting “this is what the emperor needs.” Additionally, a polling firm faced scrutiny for allegedly falsifying data in Florida’s Republican primary, leading to suspension by a major polling tracker.

Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson criticized the National Republican Senatorial Committee’s memo on data centers for its “alarmist tone.” He stated Republican candidates should define their stance on data center developments and expansions.

In a separate investigation, the FBI reportedly raided former Rep. Eric Swalwell’s home, seizing devices linked to a probe into his potential ties to a suspected Chinese spy.

In cryptocurrency news, CFTC Chair Michael Selig committed to swiftly establishing rules for the crypto market if Congress does not pass legislation. He emphasized the agency’s readiness to implement the Clarity Act, which seeks to provide a regulatory framework for the industry.