Minnesota House District 3B candidates debate data center oversight

In Minnesota's House District 3B, Republican incumbent Natalie Zeleznikar and Democratic-Farmer-Labor challenger Aaron Schweiger debated key issues during a recent candidate forum. The race is considered a significant battleground for control of the Minnesota House.

A primary focus of the debate was the proposed Google data center development in Hermantown. Both candidates expressed a need for increased oversight regarding large-scale data center projects. Zeleznikar emphasized the importance of transparency and protecting utility customers from excessive costs, noting that lawmakers will likely revisit these policies next year.

Schweiger highlighted community concerns regarding the impact of such developments on electric rates, property taxes, and water resources. He argued for stronger local community voices in the decision-making process for large-scale economic projects.