Data center super PAC: $1.5 million for Kansas governor candidate

Building the Future, a new super PAC dedicated to supporting the data center industry, committed more than $1.5 million to the campaign of Kansas State Senator Ty Masterson. The spending was disclosed on Monday by a person familiar with the transaction. Masterson, a Republican, is running for governor in a state currently controlled by Democrats.

The organization operates as an offshoot of Leading the Future, a well-funded group backed by major figures in the artificial intelligence sector. In addition to the Kansas expenditure, the New York Times reported earlier on Monday that Building the Future plans to spend approximately $1.5 million on advertising for South Carolina Senator Darline Graham. Graham is a Republican seeking re-election in a competitive Senate race.

The group’s financial push follows a strategic expansion announced in August. At that time, Build American AI, a nonprofit within the same network, launched a multimillion-dollar advertising campaign in Kansas, Ohio, and Wisconsin. The campaign aimed to promote policies that the industry views as favorable for the growth of data center infrastructure. Building the Future was formally established as the political arm of this effort during that same period.

In August, the group stated it would support candidates who advocate for policies that protect local communities, preserve water resources, and prevent increases in electricity rates. The organization also emphasized its goal of maintaining American leadership in artificial intelligence and creating high-paying jobs for domestic workers. This messaging aligns with the specific legislative positions taken by the candidates receiving their funding.

The injection of industry money comes as voter concerns over data centers have grown. The massive facilities required to power the AI boom have become a central issue in local and national elections. Opposition to new construction has intensified over the past several months, with environmental and ratepayer groups arguing that the infrastructure places a disproportionate burden on residents.

In Kansas, the governor’s race is listed as leaning Republican by the Cook Political Report. Masterson has opposed proposals for a moratorium on new data centers. He voted for a 2025 state law that grants a sales tax exemption to data center investments. His Democratic opponent, Holscher, also voted for that law but has since called for a statewide pause on new developments.

Holscher described Masterson as a representative for large technology companies who wants to place data centers in every available location. She argued that the industry’s financial support indicates a desire to secure tax breaks while utility costs rise for average residents. Masterson did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the new super PAC spending.