TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — As artificial intelligence fuels a nationwide race to build data centers, Florida’s Republican gubernatorial candidates are staking out sharply different positions on whether the state should welcome, regulate or halt their expansion.
The debate centers on competing concerns over economic growth, energy demand, water consumption and the impact large-scale facilities could have on Florida residents and natural resources. At the same time, supporters argue that data centers are increasingly necessary to power artificial intelligence systems, cloud computing and other digital services that underpin the modern economy.
While former House Speaker Paul Renner is calling for a statewide moratorium on new AI data centers, U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds argues Florida should become a leader in the industry. Lt. Gov. Jay Collins has proposed a middle-ground approach that would allow development while imposing additional safeguards.
Renner pushes for statewide halt
Renner announced what he called a “Florida First Policy on AI and AI Data Centers”, proposing an immediate stop to new AI data center construction across the state.
“The push for AI Data Center developments is a reckless gold rush,” Renner said. “Big Tech and major utilities are pushing massive data center projects at a pace that outstrips oversight, transparency, and common sense.”
Renner argues that rapid expansion could strain Florida’s power grid, increase pressure on water supplies and lead to higher utility bills for consumers already facing rising costs for housing and insurance.
His proposal also includes stronger data privacy protections, support for Gov. Ron DeSantis’ proposed AI Bill of Rights and additional safeguards governing how artificial intelligence interacts with children.
“As Governor, I will make sure innovation serves the people,” Renner said. “Since AI Data Centers cannot guarantee that today, the responsible course of action is clear: hit the stop button.”
Donalds says Florida should lead
Donalds has taken the opposite approach, arguing that AI infrastructure will be essential to the state’s economic future and that Florida should compete for data center investment.
Speaking at Florida Gulf Coast University, Donalds said growing demand for artificial intelligence, cloud computing and digital services will require additional data storage and processing facilities regardless of where they are located.
“Data centers are going to be a function of American life going forward,” Donalds said.
Rather than halting development, Donalds said Florida should establish requirements ensuring projects do not increase electricity costs for residents or harm environmental resources.
“My position on data centers is clear: you cannot raise the per kilowatt hour on Floridians, and we have to make sure that you’re not damaging our environment and not damaging our water,” he said.
Donalds also advocated for on-site power generation, including the use of small modular nuclear reactors, and said facilities should be located far enough from homes and ranches to avoid conflicts with neighboring communities.
“I’m not anti-data center, I’m pro having a plan,” Donalds said.
Collins seeks middle ground
Collins has positioned himself between the two competing approaches, rejecting both a statewide moratorium and unrestricted expansion.
“Some candidates want to hit the gas and let every project in. Others want to slam on the brakes altogether,” Collins said.
Under Collins’ proposed “Florida Strong Plan,” data center developers would be prohibited from receiving taxpayer-funded subsidies and would be required to pay for infrastructure improvements associated with their projects.
The proposal also calls for protections for local decision-making, transparency requirements and measures designed to prevent Florida residents from absorbing higher energy costs.
“We can embrace innovation without asking Florida families to foot the bill,” Collins said.
Growing debate over AI infrastructure
The issue has gained attention in Florida and nationwide as states weigh the economic benefits of AI-driven data centers against concerns about energy use, water consumption and impacts on local communities. Supporters view the facilities as essential digital infrastructure that strengthens U.S. technology and data security, while critics warn rapid expansion could strain utilities and natural resources without proper oversight.
As artificial intelligence continues to drive demand for new infrastructure, the competing visions offered by Renner, Donalds and Collins could become a defining issue in the governor’s race. Questions about energy costs, environmental impacts, economic development and the role Florida should play in the AI economy are likely to remain central points of debate as voters weigh the candidates’ competing approaches in the months leading up to the election.
