West Virginia Democratic Candidates Oppose Data Center Buildout

A coalition of Democratic candidates calling themselves Candidates Against Transmission Lines held a virtual news conference on August 4, 2026, to oppose the expansion of data centers and power transmission projects in West Virginia. The group specifically targets the NextEra Energy Mid-Atlantic Resiliency Link, the Valley Link project, and HB2014, the Power Generation and Consumption Act.

Vince George and fellow candidates argue that HB2014 removes local control and threatens the state's natural beauty. George noted that attorneys are currently working to challenge the constitutionality of the act in court. Other candidates, including Ace Parsi, Nolan Rose, and Colin Savage, claim the issue has generated significant political momentum that could lead to electoral losses for supporters of the legislation in the November elections.

Opponents allege that the legislative process prioritized corporate donors over the concerns of voters. They contend that the buildout of these facilities would disrupt the environment that attracts residents to the state, and they are actively advocating for the repeal of the Power Generation and Consumption Act.