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Escobar's Amendment to Halt Data Center Policy Fails in Congress

KVIA•Thursday, June 4, 2026 at 4:30 PM•Gabrielle Lopez

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AI Summary

Congresswoman Veronica Escobar's attempt to block federal funding for data center construction without local input was rejected by Republicans during a House Appropriations Committee meeting. Escobar expressed concerns about the environmental impact of data centers in El Paso, especially given the region's record-breaking heat and existing air quality issues. She highlighted that three data centers are already under construction, with another planned on a military installation. Escobar's proposed amendment aimed to ensure community engagement and public comment before any construction begins, reflecting widespread public opposition to such developments, as indicated by a Gallup poll showing 71% of Americans against building AI data centers nearby.

Key Details: • Escobar's amendment was discussed during the Fiscal Year 2027 budget mark-up. • Three data centers are currently being built in El Paso, with one more planned on a military site. • 71% of Americans oppose building AI data centers in residential areas, according to a Gallup poll. • Escobar is seeking community engagement from Meta regarding their proposed data center.

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El PasoVeronica EscobarMetaU.S. Environmental Protection AgencyHouse Appropriations Committeemilitary installation

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