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I would support the establishment of additional data centers only with very specific guardrails and oversight that will protect the electric system and ratepayers. Data center operators would need to: 1) register with the Public Service Commission before connecting to the electrical grid; 2) bear the responsibility to pay for the development of transmission & distribution infrastructure; 3) not pass on the costs on to residential ratepayers; 4) participate in a demand response program.
An explosion in the use of AI as well as our reliance on computers and cellphones have led to increased demands for energy. PJM, our regional transmission org., has been very poor in planning and approving energy projects. As a result, in 2024, PJM's '25–'26 capacity auction resulted in an 800% price increase, raising total costs from about $2 billion to over $14 billion in '25. It's critical that PJM diversify its approval process, we rein in utilities, and that we expand in-state generation.
Yes, definitely. Our residents want options and we should be providing a range of modes of transportation to get MD'ers to where they need to go. Transportation is the second largest expense for families and the greatest source of climate pollution. We spend too much time sitting in traffic and have some of the highest asthma rates in the U.S. Buses with dedicated lanes, bicycle and pedestrian paths, ferries, and light rail are a few of the modes of transportation we should be expanding.
Education, healthcare & transportation are some of our state's largest expenditures and are among our most important investments. We must invest in a high quality education system to prepare the next generation for the workforce and to be critical thinkers. Especially in the face of federal gov't, actions, our residents need quality affordable and accessible healthcare services. And, we need to invest in our transportation system to expand economic opportunities and address environmental issues.
I have done a number of things to support the immigrant community: 1) fought to provide legal services to those facing deportation to ensure due process of law; 2) opposed local law enforcement cooperation agreements with ICE; 3) supported banning the wearing of masks by law enforcement; 4) opposed detention centers being built in MD; 5) supported laws to protect sensitive locations like courthouses, schools, hospitals, etc. from ICE; 6) protected sensitive data from being used inappropriately.
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While I support the concept, these data centers are very power intensive. Given the Democrats' absolutely ignorant and irresponsible approach to grid management by restricting the use of clean gas and coal power generation, energy costs for Maryland residents have already skyrocketed. Data centers will only make it worse. Unless the Democrats can be restored to sanity regarding energy production and its cost to consumers, (unlikely to occur), I would oppose data centers.
The Democrats have taken irresponsible and costly actions to eliminate the use of plentiful natural gas and clean coal for energy production. This has resulted in skyrocketing energy costs. At the same time, they have promoted many new, unsightly, unreliable and environmentally destructive solar farms--which REQUIRE subsidy (i.e. taxpayer support) to survive, while producing tiny amounts of electricity. So-called "clean" energy is one of the biggest scams in US history.
I believe public transportation in Maryland is currently more than adequate. As a Baltimore County resident, I witness the light rail on regular occasions, rarely with more than a few people on board. While I recognize some individuals' reliance on public transportation, there is no shortage for those in need. We don't need more public transportation in my district, and I believe greater use is part of a long-term plan designed to eventually ban private auto ownership and use throughout MD.
1. The Democrats compulsively overspend every year and use gimmicks to balance the budget. My goal as senator would be to reduce overall spending. I question many of the Kirwan Commission's recommendations, given that education costs per student are already higher than most other states. However I do support spending on school renovation and/or construction in those districts where needed.
2. Reduce all taxes.
3. Dredging the Conowingo dam to restore the oyster fishery in the upper Chesapeake.
I fully support legal immigration. Legal immigrants rarely require help, are a boon to the marketplace, and adapt to our language and culture. I would support help to those who struggle with this, but for most legal immigrants it isn't a problem. Illegal aliens are not immigrants and have no legitimate place here. They have stolen jobs and businesses, especially in poorer communities, and have spiked criminal activity. Sanctuary policies have contributed to every crime committed by illegals.
