Data Centers
The Local Fight Over Data Centers: A Texas Case Study
August 19, 2026 | Ben Seitelman
Key Takeaways:
- Thirty-six gubernatorial races in November 2026 feature candidates with widely varying positions on data center policy, with most supporting expansion paired with increased regulations or local control.
- Sixteen states have at least one gubernatorial candidate calling for a temporary data center moratorium, though the scope and duration of proposed pauses vary considerably by candidate.
- Fewer than ten candidates across all races are pledging full support for data centers without additional regulatory conditions or community oversight requirements.
- Gubernatorial positions on data centers show few clear partisan or regional patterns, with candidates from the same party often taking opposing stances on expansion and regulation.
We’ve spent months covering gubernatorial positions on data centers, yet stances continue to change so rapidly that there’s still ground to cover. This week, we’re diving into the 36 gubernatorial races coming up in November to unpack what candidates are saying about data center policy.
As we’ve discussed, there are relatively few partisan or regional trends when it comes to data center policy. The majority of candidates want to allow data center expansion but pair expansion with either increased regulations or strong local control. Sixteen states have at least one candidate calling for a temporary moratorium, and fewer than ten candidates total are pledging full support for data centers.
Candidate Positions on Data Center Policy
We’ve made broad categorizations in the chart below based on each candidate’s public comments, but we’ve also included the source link for each stance so you can dig in if you’re interested.
To some candidates, increased regulations just means strong local control, while to others, regulations include broad legislative packages that impact everything from energy to community affairs to tax.
Additionally, support for a moratorium can have different meanings for candidates as well. Some candidates are calling for short-term moratoriums to gather more information while others are taking a stronger, more permanent position.
Either way, we expect even more changes to emerge from campaigns this fall, and for governors to be at the forefront of these policy discussions in 2027.
Track State Data Center Policy
Last year, states considered hundreds of data center bills, and we expect activity to continue growing in 2026. To stay on top of this rapidly evolving landscape, we've launched MultiState Policy Watch: Data Centers – a subscription featuring legislative analysis, trend summaries, and expert insights across energy, tax, water, zoning, and other policy areas impacting data centers. Sign up here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which states have gubernatorial candidates calling for a data center moratorium in 2026?
At least sixteen states have one or more gubernatorial candidates calling for a temporary moratorium on data center development as of the 2026 election cycle. The specific duration and scope of these proposed moratoriums vary by candidate, with some seeking short-term pauses to gather information while others advocate for more permanent restrictions.
What is the most common gubernatorial position on data center expansion in 2026?
The majority of gubernatorial candidates support allowing data center expansion but want to pair it with either increased regulations or strong local control measures. Fewer than ten candidates across all races are pledging full support for data centers without additional conditions. This reflects a middle-ground approach that balances economic development with community concerns.
Are there clear partisan differences in gubernatorial data center policy positions?
No, there are relatively few partisan or regional trends when it comes to gubernatorial candidates' positions on data center policy. Candidates from both parties and across different regions show varied approaches, ranging from full support to moratoriums to regulated expansion. The lack of clear partisan alignment makes these races particularly unpredictable on this issue.
What types of regulations are gubernatorial candidates proposing for data centers?
Proposed regulations vary significantly by candidate, with some focusing primarily on strong local control while others advocate for comprehensive legislative packages. These broader regulatory approaches can address multiple areas including energy consumption, community impact, and tax policy. The term "increased regulations" encompasses a wide spectrum of policy interventions depending on the candidate.
When will new gubernatorial data center policies likely take effect?
Governors are expected to be at the forefront of data center policy discussions in 2027, following the November 2026 elections. Campaign positions continue to evolve rapidly in the lead-up to the election, and final policy directions will become clearer once newly elected or re-elected governors take office.
