Key facts
- Senate Democrats are considering a vote on a GOP-led data center bill.
- Democrats view the bill as an attempt to aid Republican candidate Husted.
- At least seven Democratic votes are needed for the bill to advance.
- Senator Peter Welch is the only Democrat to publicly support the bill so far.
Senate Democrats are divided on whether to support a data center bill proposed by Republican leaders, viewing it as a strategic move to benefit an embattled GOP candidate, Husted. While most Democrats have not yet decided on their vote, some see potential advantages in supporting the bill's advancement. Voting to begin debate could keep Republicans campaigning longer and shield Democrats from accusations of obstruction. However, even a procedural vote risks bolstering Husted and could open the door to an unpredictable amendment process. The Senate is scheduled to hold an initial vote on Wednesday, requiring at least seven Democratic votes to proceed. Several senators indicated that a caucus-wide discussion has not yet occurred, though it may take place at a Tuesday lunch. Privately, some Republicans do not expect the bill to secure the 60 votes needed for final passage. Husted, meanwhile, is publicly pressuring Democrats to support the bill, framing it as a measure that would require data centers to cover their own electricity costs rather than passing them to consumers, an issue he claims the American public desires. Senator Peter Welch is the sole Democrat to have publicly stated his support, though he believes the bill does not go far enough.