Pro-Data Center PAC Invests $1.5M in Kansas Gubernatorial Race
A new super PAC advocating for data centers is backing Ty Masterson in the Kansas governor race with a $1.5M investment, targeting key issues in the campaign.
In a significant move to shape the upcoming Kansas gubernatorial election, a new super PAC named Building the Future has committed to a $1.5 million investment in favor of state Senator Ty Masterson, a Republican. This financial boost is part of a broader strategy around ongoing debates regarding data centers and their impact on local communities.
Super PAC's Background
Building the Future emerges as an offshoot of the existing pro-AI super PAC known as Leading the Future. This organization is endorsed by influential figures from the artificial intelligence sector and aims to promote policies favorable to the industry, emphasizing growth and legislative support surrounding data Center expansions.
Alongside its efforts in Kansas, the PAC is reportedly planning to spend an equal amount to support Sen. Darline Graham in the South Carolina Senate race, highlighting a concerted effort nationally to influence critical elections.
Focus on Data Centers
The advent of data centers has sparked intense discussions as these structures play a vital role in supporting the burgeoning AI industry. In August, another entity within Leading the Future, called Build American AI, launched a multi-million dollar advertising push in states such as Kansas, Ohio, and Wisconsin. This initiative aims to promote favorable policies that facilitate data center infrastructure while ensuring that community integrity and resources are preserved.
As stated by Building the Future, the PAC intends to support political candidates who align with their vision of establishing “responsible policies.” These policies are designed to protect community interests, conserve water resources, and prevent hikes in electricity bills, all while enhancing America’s position in AI development and job creation.
Kansas Political Landscape
With Kansas representing one of the few Democratic-controlled governorships that Republicans view as potentially flippable, this race has come under the lens of various political analysts. The nonpartisan Cook Political Report currently categorizes this contest as leaning Republican. In addition to the gubernatorial race, Kansas is also witnessing a closely watched Senate election where Republican Roger Marshall faces off against Democratic pastor Adam Hamilton.
Laura Holscher, Masterson’s Democratic challenger, has criticized his agenda, openly labeling him a “stooge for Big Tech.” She argues that his stance on data centers is indicative of prioritizing corporate interests over those of Kansas residents, warning that his policies could lead to excessive development and tax incentives for large tech companies.
Contrasting Views on Development
It is noteworthy that both candidates previously supported a 2025 law that provided tax exemptions for data center investments. However, their current perspectives diverge sharply. Holscher is now advocating for a statewide moratorium on new projects, calling for a thorough evaluation of the implications of such developments on local communities and environmental sustainability.
Conversely, Masterson has defended his pro-data center policy decisions, insisting that such developments are essential for driving economic growth and maintaining national security. He positions the need for local control over data center construction as a priority, hoping to mitigate concerns raised by critics.
Conclusion
The implications of data center development are becoming a pivotal issue in the Kansas gubernatorial race, shaping candidate platforms and sculpting public discourse. As the election date approaches, the financial backing for candidates like Masterson from organizations like Building the Future may significantly influence the direction of policies relating to data centers and their impact on communities across the state.