ORLANDO, FL— Today, Paul Renner for Governor called for an immediate halt to the build-out of Artificial Intelligence (AI) data centers across Florida, warning that they threaten families, the economy, and the state’s natural resources.
“The push for AI Data Center developments is a reckless gold rush,” Paul Renner said. “Big Tech and major utilities are pushing massive data center projects at a pace that outstrips oversight, transparency, and common sense. As Governor, I’ll stop it.”
Drawing a sharp contrast with Congressman Byron Donalds, who has called for Florida to become a national leader in AI data center development, Renner said: “Some politicians are racing to turn Florida into the epicenter of AI infrastructure at any cost. That’s not happening on my watch! Leadership doesn’t mean blindly chasing the next trend— it means protecting the people you serve. We are not going to sacrifice affordability, reliability, and our natural resources just to benefit special interests.”
During the Orlando, FL press conference, Renner outlined how the Florida First Policy on AI and AI Data Centers will:
- Protect consumers from rate hikes by stopping the construction of AI data centers;
- Preserve Florida’s natural resources such as our water supply, energy infrastructure, and environmentally sensitive lands by stopping the construction of AI data centers;
- Pass Governor DeSantis’ proposed AI Bill of Rights;
- Protect individual data privacy from potential exploitation from Artificial Intelligence;
- Safeguard children from increased predatory AI practices and empower parents with stronger oversight over how AI systems interact with children by enacting parental opt-in and restrictions on AI use by minors.
Renner’s proposal demands a statewide moratorium on new AI data center construction to protect consumers, workers, and the environment. He pointed to rising energy demands, increased strain on water supplies which are already low from a record drought season, and the likelihood of higher utility costs as immediate concerns for Floridians.
He cited: “The recently passed AI data center bill is likely the best we can expect from a dysfunctional legislature unwilling to work with Gov. DeSantis. We need further guardrails to guarantee that Florida families won’t see their utility bills go up. Floridians are already in an affordability crisis where the cost of housing, insurance, and everyday goods is outpacing wage growth for most. Therefore, we need accountability before expansion — ask questions now — not after the damage is done.”
Lastly, Renner discussed how Florida has always embraced innovation, but innovation must come with responsibility. He would make it a priority to stop the predatory practices of AI targeting children and how it represents one of the most urgent risks of unchecked technological expansion.
“Advanced algorithms are increasingly designed to capture and hold young user’s attention. These systems are monetizing our children’s immaturity— blurring the lines between human interaction and machine manipulation, and exposing minors to inappropriate content without parental consent. We need clear safeguards, transparency requirements, and enforceable boundaries on AI-powered platforms because innovation should not exploit the next generation,” Renner added.
Renner concluded with: “Florida First is about placing the safety, well-being and privacy of Floridians above the self-interests of tech titans. Our state must balance the realities of technological innovation without sacrificing consumer affordability, freedom, parental rights, and our natural resources. As Governor, I will make sure innovation serves the people. Since AI Data Centers cannot guarantee that today, the responsible course of action is clear: hit the stop button!”