Texas Governor-elect Hinojosa Promises Data Center Laws
Texas Governor-elect Gina Hinojosa pledged to introduce new laws protecting residents from data center impacts on rural communities.
Hinojosa Campaign Pledge Details
Governor-elect Gina Hinojosa stated she will protect Texans after being sworn in January. She told CNN that current rules lack protections for residents in rural areas. The Democrat beat incumbent Greg Abbott in Tuesday's election to win the seat. Hinojosa said the state must stop new projects until proper legal safeguards exist.
Industry Context and Election Backing
Texas attracts data centers due to cheap land and plentiful energy supplies. President Donald Trump's administration supports expansion as a national priority despite public opposition. Billionaire Elon Musk supported Abbott and spent $158 million promoting Senate candidate Ken Paxton. Musk plans a chipmaking venture in the state while his companies are headquartered there.
Future Relations With Tech Firms
Hinojosa added that Texas can maintain strong working relationships with Musk and his companies. These partnerships will operate strictly on her administration's specific terms moving forward. She emphasized communities need a seat at the table regarding operations. The state previously discussed selling Boca Chica State Park to SpaceX in October.
2 outlets, different leads
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The Hill
Hinojosa vows to protect Texas citizens from data centers
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Business Recorder
Texas governor-elect says state will have laws to shield citizens from data centers
Reported by
2 independent outlets. Headlines as published. Links open the original report.