Issues / Environment

Data Centers & The Environment

Climate change and environmental protection aren’t just moral imperatives—they’re economic opportunities for Ohio. I support aggressive investment in alternative energy and green technology to reduce carbon emissions while creating good-paying jobs right here. This is a win-win: we combat climate change, reduce our dependency on fossil fuels, and build Ohio’s economy with higher-paying skilled jobs in renewable energy sectors.

Conservation and agriculture go hand in hand. The farm bill should include programs that protect wildlife habitats, improve water quality, prevent erosion, and help farmers build resilience against climate impacts. Federal policy should encourage and support landowners, farmers, and community members who practice environmental stewardship through native plantings and soil restoration.

We must also address data centers’ environmental impacts. These facilities consume massive amounts of energy and water, straining local grids and resources. I support local communities’ right to reject data centers that threaten their environment and infrastructure. Where they are built, we must strengthen EPA oversight to require comprehensive environmental impact studies assessing strain on energy grids, water resources, air quality, and waste discharge before construction begins. We also need to end members of Congress trading in tech companies building these facilities—members of Congress shouldn’t profit from inside information or be incentivized to make decisions that might harm communities.

The choice isn’t between economic prosperity and environmental protection—smart policy delivers both.