Data center dominates candidate forum in Utah Senate president’s reelection bid
Utah Senate President Stuart Adams faced challengers Braden Hess and Stephanie Hollist at a forum where the Stratos AI data center, backed by Kevin O’Leary, dominated discussion amid public opposition over water use. Adams acknowledged shifting his stance to reduce the project’s size after public pushback, while Hollist criticized the lack of community input and Hess argued for treating data centers like other businesses if they do not harm resources.
Utah Senate President Stuart Adams, a Republican from Layton, participated in a candidate forum on June 17 at Sunset Junior High School, where the controversial Stratos AI data center in Box Elder County became the central issue. Adams, facing a primary challenge from fellow Republicans Braden Hess and Stephanie Hollist, addressed concerns over the project’s water usage and environmental impact, which has drawn strong opposition from residents. The data center, promoted by celebrity businessman Kevin O’Leary, has faced criticism for its potential strain on local water supplies and tax implications. Adams, who previously supported the project as chair of the state’s Military Installation Development Authority (MIDA), recently pushed for reductions in its size and adjustments to send unused water to the Great Salt Lake. He admitted to listening to public concerns, stating the project was improved as a result. Hollist, a challenger, repeatedly criticized the data center, calling it the ‘largest in the country’ and questioning the lack of community input. She emphasized the need for transparency and data-driven decision-making before approving such a large-scale project. Hess, another challenger, argued that data centers should not be treated differently from other businesses unless they pose measurable harm to society or resources. Attendees, including Box Elder County resident Tameron Williams, expressed alarm over the project’s potential to divert tax dollars and water, threatening the region’s way of life. The forum, sponsored by the nonprofit Grow the Flow, highlighted deep divisions over the data center’s future, with Adams attempting to balance economic development with public concerns. The Utah Senate primary will determine which Republican candidate advances to the November general election. The outcome could shape the state’s stance on major infrastructure projects, particularly in the context of growing AI industry demands and water resource management.
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