Governor Josh Shapiro signed an executive order on August 18 that he says imposes the “strictest guardrails in the nation” on data center development in Pennsylvania. The order, aimed at curbing speculative projects that could raise utility costs, strain water supplies, and hide behind nondisclosure agreements, has quickly become a litmus test for candidates in four key congressional races.
Local control at the forefront
Republican Rep. Rob Bresnahan (PA‑8) praised the order, arguing that “locals know what’s best for their communities” and that the governor’s move aligns with his own stance. Democratic challenger Mayor Paige Cognetti echoed the sentiment, warning that unchecked data‑center projects would let “greedy corporations” line their pockets while leaving residents with higher bills and environmental risks.
Mixed reactions in neighboring districts
In the 7th District, Republican Rep. Ryan Mackenzie criticized the governor’s earlier fast‑track permitting but welcomed the new safeguards, saying Pennsylvania needs to “pause” and assess electricity costs, noise pollution, and proper zoning. Democratic opponent Bob Brooks, a firefighters’ union leader, expressed trust in Shapiro’s judgment, noting that the order gives municipalities the power to set ordinances and that he will support local officials who act responsibly.
Republican backlash and Democratic support
Republican Rep. Scott Perry (PA‑10), a former House Freedom Caucus chair, attacked Shapiro as a “craven flip‑flopper” who once handed out tax credits to data‑center developers. Democratic challenger Janelle Stelson praised the executive order as a positive step, contrasting it with Perry’s past support for generous corporate tax breaks.
Bipartisan legislative effort
Republican Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (PA‑1) announced his backing of the governor’s order and said he will co‑sponsor the bipartisan Ratepayer Protection Act (H.R. 6984), which would require greater disclosure of data‑center energy use, water consumption, and local utility impacts. Rep. Ryan Mackenzie is also listed as a co‑sponsor.
Endorsements and the broader race
All four Democratic candidates have endorsed Governor Shapiro’s re‑election bid, and the governor has returned the favor by supporting their campaigns. As of August 27, Bresnahan, Mackenzie, and Perry have publicly endorsed State Treasurer Stacy Garrity in her gubernatorial race, underscoring the intertwined nature of these contests.
Political analysts at the Cook Political Report label the 8th, 7th, 10th, and 1st districts as “toss‑ups” for the 2026 midterms, meaning the data‑center debate could prove decisive for voters who prioritize local control, environmental stewardship, and affordable utility rates.
What’s at stake for Pennsylvanians
Beyond partisan rhetoric, the core issue remains whether Pennsylvania’s communities will retain the authority to approve or reject data‑center projects that could affect their water supplies, electricity bills, and overall quality of life. The governor’s order, backed by many local candidates, seeks to ensure that any future development undergoes rigorous scrutiny at the municipal level.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
