Pro-Data Center Super PAC Backs Kansas GOP Candidate Masterson

A new political action committee, Building the Future, is making headlines by committing over $1.5 million to support Republican Kansas state Sen. Ty Masterson in his campaign for governor. This initiative has raised eyebrows regarding the increasing influence of data center interests in running for key political offices.

Support for Masterson

Backed by industry leaders from the artificial intelligence sector, Building the Future is seen as an offshoot of the pro-AI organization known as Leading the Future. This PAC is also making waves in South Carolina, where it plans to spend a similar amount to support GOP Senator Darline Graham's campaign.

Importance of Data Centers

Earlier this year, another entity from the Leading the Future network, Build American AI, initiated a major advertising campaign across several states, including Kansas, Ohio, and Wisconsin, advocating for favorable policies geared towards data center expansion. They emphasize the need for responsible approaches that protect local communities and resources, while also promoting job creation in America.

As Kansas enters a critical electoral season, Masterson's GOP connections come at a time when opposition to data center developments is intensifying. These facilities, essential for powering the modern AI landscape, have become a significant talking point for voters nationwide.

Current Political Landscape

Kansas is one of the few Democratic-held governorships that Republicans see as a viable target in upcoming elections. The Cook Political Report describes this race as leaning Republican. Additionally, a competitive Senate race is unfolding in the state between Republican Senator Roger Marshall and Democratic challenger Adam Hamilton.

Senator Masterson’s opponent, Laura Holscher, criticized him as a “stooge for Big Tech,” asserting that he seeks to deploy data centers indiscriminately across Kansas, including in rural areas. She argues that such developments lead to tax breaks benefiting billionaires while increasing costs for everyday residents. Holscher maintains that she prioritizes legislation to manage and limit the reach of data center initiatives.

Stances on Data Centers

Masterson has been an advocate for data centers, previously voting for a law in 2025 that provides sales tax exemptions to encourage investment in these facilities. In contrast, Holscher, although having supported the same law, is now calling for a pause on new developments to assess their impacts statewide.

In South Carolina, Senator Graham proposes a similar perspective, asserting that investments in data centers are crucial for national security while advocating for local jurisdictions to control construction practices. However, her opponent, Annie Andrews, has urged a moratorium on new data centers, dubbing Graham “Data Center Darline” in a critique of her stance.

Overall, data center operations are emerging as a pivotal concern not just in Kansas but across the nation, shaping political discussions and allegiances in the lead-up to critical elections.