Right now, Michigan is experiencing a surge in proposed data center developments, despite the protests of local residents all across the state - who have good reason to be skeptical. Data centers consistently promise economic development opportunities that don’t materialize. While there are temporary job gains during construction, data centers have historically created only a few low wage jobs in the long term, while communities pay the price in higher energy bills and threats to water quality. A May 2026 poll found that 77% of Michigan residents support regulations requiring more transparency from data center projects. We need to pause this data center frenzy before more damage is done. That's why we're working to pass a moratorium on data center construction across the state.From now (October) until Election Day (November 3rd), we are working on a special project combining our fight against data centers with the need to turn folks around the state out to vote all the way down the ballot.  We need to ensure that strong environmental advocates who will push back on data centers are elected to local, state and federal offices, and that our supporters understand all of the different options for voting in Michigan.Responsibilities of this special voter turnout focused project include:Ensuring communities are aware of our issues and given the tools to achieve solutions by organizing with our field canvass team.Talking with community members about voting in order to elect strong environmental candidatesEducating registered voters about options for absentee voting and making sure they know when/where to voteParticipating in occasional press conferences, lobby days, virtual town halls, and other events
