Joe Jasper
DemocraticQ2 Delaware’s electricity is delivered through PJM interconnection, the regional grid operator for the mid-atlantic. Across the PJM region, electricity demand is rising in part due to large-scale data center development. What evidence-based policies, if any, would you support addressing the effects of AI-driven data center growth on electricity costs and grid reliability for Delaware’s residents?
The first priority should always be Delaware residents. Between the looming threat of data centers and a rate hike we need to press pause on AI driven growth. I would support policies that are well-informed and that includes talking to infrastructure designers, workers, and users. We need to think about how to diversify the grid in ways that support affordability, the expansion of green energy and new development without harming current residents.
Q3 Federal agencies including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) project that Delaware’s coastal communities face increasing risk of tidal flooding in the coming decades. What evidence-based policies, if any, would you support to help these communities respond to increased coastal flooding risk?
Delaware is a coastal state, period, so everyone will be impacted by flooding, salt-water intrusion and sea level rise at some point, even if it is as a bystander supporting neighbors. Continuing to work with experts on managed retreat, protection of wetlands and forested areas, the preservation of farmland, shoreline adaptation, stormwater management and other mitigation programs is essential. There is not a universal or singular approach to respond to increasing flood risk. This means getting many people around the table, including scientists, policymakers, residents, and state, county and other local government agencies.
Q9 Delaware funds youth substance-use prevention programs through the Division of Public Health and the state budget. According to the 2024 Delaware School Survey, 26% of Delaware 11th graders perceive great risk in regular marijuana use, down from 50% in 1999. What evidence-based policies, if any, would you support to address substance use among young people in Delaware and ensure drug usage decline?
I think it is important to create opportunities for people to learn and to be educated about what’s out there. With the legalization of marijuana in Delaware and the proliferation of CBD and THC products there is an opportunity to educate about marijuana and other substances. As a former beer brewer and brewery owner education for people at all ages about the dangers of substance abuse, whether it is drugs or alcohol is paramount.