Texas agriculture chief warns data-center boom could cost GOP midterm seats

In an interview, Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller warned that the proliferation of data-center facilities could lead to Republican losses in this year’s statewide elections. He highlighted that more than 300 centers are active and at least 248 projects are slated, while a new poll shows a majority of Texans oppose local construction. Miller accused Governor Greg Abbott of delaying action, suggesting the governor is allowing developers to lock in benefits before stricter rules arrive.

Although Miller declined to endorse any candidate, he said he may leave some Republican ballots blank because of the issue. He also recalled multiple attempts to secure a one-year moratorium, a special legislative session, and the return of donor money from data-center firms, all of which he says were ignored. Abbott’s office responded by pointing to recent steps such as pausing grid-connection approvals and proposing to end a sales-tax exemption for data centers. Miller concluded that the governor’s moves are political maneuvers aimed at preserving support from the industry.