Pro-Data Center PAC Backs Kansas Governor Candidate Ty Masterson

A newly established super PAC named Building the Future has made a significant splash in the Kansas governor’s race, pledging more than $1.5 million in support of Republican state Senator Ty Masterson. This investment highlights the increasing controversy surrounding the development of data centers in the region.

PAC Origin and Goals

Building the Future is an offshoot of the pro-AI super PAC called Leading the Future. Backed by key figures in the artificial intelligence industry, this PAC serves as a political powerhouse promoting favorable policies for data centers and other tech initiatives.

In addition to the funds earmarked for Masterson, reports indicate that the PAC is also channeling about $1.5 million into advertisements supporting Republican Senator Darline Graham in South Carolina.

Data Centers as a Key Issue

The push for data center development has become a hot-button issue in multiple states, including Kansas and South Carolina, particularly as these facilities are crucial for powering the burgeoning AI industry. Earlier this year, Build American AI, another member of the Leading the Future network, launched an extensive multimillion-dollar advertising campaign across key states like Kansas, Ohio, and Wisconsin. The aim was to influence policy discussions surrounding the growth of data centers.

Building the Future emphasizes support for candidates who advocate for responsible governance of data centers, focusing on local community benefits, preservation of water resources, and preventing electricity rate hikes. Their overarching goal is to create good-paying jobs while ensuring that the United States maintains leadership in the AI sector.

The Political Landscape in Kansas

With the upcoming gubernatorial election, Kansas represents one of the few opportunities for Republicans to potentially flip a Democratic-controlled seat. According to nonpartisan analyses, the race is leaning Republican, with Masterson's campaign aiming to capitalize on this potential shift.

In addition to the governor's race, the state is also witnessing a competitive Senate race, where Republican Senator Roger Marshall faces a challenge from Democratic pastor Adam Hamilton.

Opposition Voices

Democratic candidate Laura Holscher has been vocal in her criticisms of Masterson, branding him a “stooge for Big Tech.” She argues that his pro-data center policies threaten to inundate the state with excessive development, ultimately benefiting corporations at the expense of everyday Kansans.

“These billionaire CEOs are funding his campaign because they know he will prioritize their interests over those of typical Kansans,” Holscher stated. “I want to ensure that we implement regulations that not only manage data center growth but also put Kansas residents first.”

While both candidates previously voted for a law in 2025 that granted sales tax exemptions for data center projects, their current stances diverge sharply. Holscher is now advocating for a statewide moratorium on further data center developments, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of the impact on local communities and resources.

In contrast, Masterson defends his position, asserting that data centers are essential for both economic growth and national security. His campaign highlights the importance of offering local control over such developments as a priority for future projects.

Conclusion

The debate surrounding data centers continues to evolve, emerging as a critical issue in political dialogues both in Kansas and across the nation. As substantial financial backing supports candidates like Masterson, the implications for local communities, environmental policies, and economic strategies are set to be vigorously contested in the lead-up to the elections.