Ohio’s 9th Congressional district race: The candidates’ records on data centers

The race for Ohio’s 9th U.S. Congressional district highlights contrasting records regarding data center development, as these facilities have received $2.5 billion in state and local tax incentives between 2017 and 2024. Derek Merrin voted for Ohio’s data center tax breaks while Marcy Kaptur has voiced concern that the companies should pay for draining power and water from local communities. Additionally, average residential utility bills in Ohio are projected to see a significant increase.