TL/DR –
Democratic senate candidate James Talarico accused Republican candidate Ken Paxton of ignoring residents’ concerns about data center construction due to his receipt of nearly $500,000 from the data center industry. In response, Paxton’s campaign accused Talarico of hypocrisy, citing $12 million in funding his campaign infrastructure received from donors tied to data centers. Talarico defended his stance on data centers, pledging to advocate for data centers to pay for their own energy and recycle water, and insisting on community input before such projects are initiated.
Democratic Senate Candidate Criticizes Rival Over Data Center Industry Connections
In a recent interview with CBS News Texas, Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico attacked his Republican opponent Ken Paxton over ties to the data center industry.
Talarico accused Paxton of ignoring local concerns over data center construction due to half a million in campaign contributions linked to the industry. Paxton’s campaign spokesperson, Madison Cercy, retorted that Talarico’s campaign infrastructure accepted $12 million from donors with data center connections.
NOTUS reported that Paxton received nearly $450,000 from the data center industry while the Texas Tribune revealed billionaire Reid Hoffman’s $11.5 million donation to a super PAC endorsing Talarico. Talarico stated that he has no control over super PAC activities and clarified that he has never accepted a donation directly from Hoffman.
Talarico and Paxton’s Views on Data Centers and the Energy Industry
Talarico wants to regulate data centers to ensure they pay for their own energy, recycle water, and involve local communities in project decisions. Paxton supports guidelines established by Governor Greg Abbott, who has paused new data center approvals in the state.
Talarico also supports a comprehensive U.S. energy policy and introduced the Texas Climate Action Act in 2021, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions significantly. Pointing to ExxonMobil’s carbon capture efforts, Talarico believes it is possible to bolster the Texas energy industry while limiting emissions.
Talarico’s Commitment to the Energy Sector
If elected, Talarico pledged to oppose Washington, DC bills or rules that could harm the Texas energy industry. Regardless of whether it’s oil, gas, or renewables, Talarico promised to protect all aspects of the energy industry.
The Full Episode Can Be Accessed Below
Eye on Politics airs Sunday mornings at 7:30 on CBS News Texas, available on-air and streaming.
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