Data centers are becoming an influential topic among Ohio voters, more so than in other battleground states like Alaska, Iowa, Kansas, and Texas. According to New York Times/Siena polling, 3% of respondents in Ohio identified data centers as the critical factor influencing their vote. This percentage is significantly higher than in the aforementioned states, where less than 1% of voters regarded it as their prime concern.
The heightened attention in Ohio arises as several Republican leaders in the state show varying support for AI development initiatives. This political tension indicates growing voter concern over the infrastructure essential for powering AI technology, as detailed in Newsweek’s AI Policy Scorecard.
The AI Policy Scorecard evaluates lawmakers’ public records on AI and data centers, assigning a rating from “Skeptic” to “Booster” on a scale of one to five. Scores are based on sponsored bills, congressional votes, and other relevant stances.
Representative David Taylor (OH-02) holds a “Lean Booster” status with a 3.7 score, indicating support for initiatives like the GRID Power Act, which expedites approval processes for power projects. His race, according to Sabato’s Crystal Ball, is considered safe for the incumbent party.
Similarly, Representative David Joyce (OH-14) is also identified as “Lean Booster” by the scorecard, with forecasters predicting a secure race for his party.
Representative Jim Jordan (OH-04) shares the “Lean Booster” status, credited for backing the SPEED Act. Assessment agencies rate his race safe for the incumbent party.
In a different stance, Representative Max Miller (OH-07) exhibits a “Mixed” record with one leaning “Skeptic” and the other “Booster.” His political scenario is deemed a “toss-up,” adding unpredictability to the electoral outcome.
Other representatives like Michael Rulli (OH-06) rated as “Leans Booster” underline the economic benefits of data centers, further supported by a score of four out of five. Sabato’s Crystal Ball views his race as favoring Republicans.
Michael Turner (OH-10), Mike Carey (OH-15), and Troy Balderson (OH-12) continue to fall into the “Lean Booster” category, each showcasing support for data center projects and benefitting from a favorable electoral outlook.
Representative Robert Latta (OH-05) is notable for encouraging investigations into foreign interference in data center development. He holds a “Lean Booster” ranking, suggesting optimistic predictions for his race.
Warren Davidson (OH-08) matches the “Lean Booster” sentiment with similar endorsements in energy policy.
Contrastingly, Senator Jon Husted is categorized as a “Lean Skeptic” with a 2.7 score due to initiatives like the Ratepayer Protection Act. His race represents a “toss-up,” hinting at competitive dynamics surrounding his candidacy.
Newsweek sought comments from these political figures. Representative David Taylor’s office declined to comment. For more insights, Newsweek utilized Martyn, an AI assistant to construct this report.
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