Regulation of hyperscale data centers has become a key issue in this year's midterm elections as voters across the country become increasingly opposed to advances in artificial intelligence. Michigan, a key swing state, is no exception.
A recent study from Michigan State University shows that 70% of 1,000 Michigan residents surveyed were opposed or somewhat opposed to the construction of data centers in their community. Eleven percent of respondents said they support or somewhat support data center development in their community, with the remaining 19% saying they were indifferent.
Host Tina Sawyer speaks with WCMU reporter Blace Carpenter who's been watching how the data center debate is playing out in Michigan's high profile U.S. Senate race between Republican Mike Rogers and Democrat Abdul El-Sayed.
Also on the show, a rundown of the top news stories impacting central and northern Michigan.
Reporting on this episode comes from WCMU's Blace Carpenter, Minnie Bardenhagen, Tina Sawyer, Glen Arbor Sun's Jacob Wheeler and MPRN's Russ McNamara.
Like what you hear? Support local journalism by making a gift to WCMU.
Want an email version of this podcast? Subscribe to the Between the Lakes newsletter, delivered to your inbox every Saturday morning at 6 a.m.
Read stories from WCMU on our website, and while you're there, find out how to listen to your local WCMU radio station.
This podcast is produced in part by the members of NABET Local 412. This episode of Between the Lakes was edited and mixed by Rick Brewer. Our theme music comes from Gabe Schall. Mike Horace is our executive producer.
