Matt Powell

I support responsible data-center development, but Delaware families and small businesses should not be forced to subsidize the enormous electricity demands of large technology companies.

AI-powered data centers can bring investment, construction jobs, and tax revenue. However, their growth must not increase electricity costs or weaken grid reliability for Delaware residents. I believe data centers should be largely self-sufficient by creating or directly securing the energy needed to operate. This could include on-site generation, renewable energy paired with battery storage, or other dependable energy sources that meet Delaware’s environmental and safety standards.

Data-center operators should also pay the full cost of the infrastructure required to serve them, including substations, transmission upgrades, and other grid improvements. Long-term contracts and substantial upfront financial commitments should protect ratepayers if a project is delayed, reduced, or abandoned.

Before receiving state approval or financial incentives, every major data-center proposal should undergo an independent review of its effects on electricity rates, grid reliability, water consumption, land use, and local infrastructure.

Delaware should welcome innovation and economic development, but growth must pay its own way. Those creating extraordinary electricity demand should provide the energy and infrastructure necessary to meet it—not pass those costs on to Delaware families.

Delaware’s coastline is one of our state’s greatest assets, but it also makes many communities increasingly vulnerable to tidal flooding. We should rely on sound science and practical solutions to protect our homes, businesses, roads, and public infrastructure while being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars.

I support investing in resilient infrastructure, including improved stormwater systems, elevating vulnerable roadways, strengthening flood-control projects, and restoring wetlands and natural shorelines that help absorb floodwaters. These investments reduce long-term damage while protecting our environment.

We should also work closely with local governments, emergency management officials, property owners, and the federal government to secure funding for flood mitigation projects. Delaware should aggressively pursue federal grants to reduce the financial burden on state taxpayers.

As development continues, new construction in flood-prone areas should follow modern, evidence-based building standards that improve resilience without placing unnecessary burdens on homeowners or small businesses.

Finally, we must strengthen emergency preparedness through better flood warning systems, evacuation planning, and public education so families have the information they need before storms occur.

Protecting Delaware’s coastal communities is not a partisan issue. It is about safeguarding our residents, preserving our economy, and making smart investments that strengthen our communities for future generations.

Protecting our children from substance abuse requires a balanced approach centered on prevention, education, treatment, and accountability. The decline in young people’s perception of the risks of regular marijuana use is concerning because research shows early substance use can affect brain development, mental health, and academic success.

I support expanding evidence-based prevention programs in our schools that provide honest, age-appropriate education about the risks of marijuana, opioids, vaping, alcohol, and other drugs. These programs should actively involve parents, educators, healthcare professionals, and community organizations.

We must also increase access to school-based mental health services and counseling. Many young people struggling with substance use are also dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or family challenges. Addressing these underlying issues can reduce the likelihood of drug use before it begins.

Law enforcement should continue targeting those who illegally sell drugs to minors and combat the flow of fentanyl into our communities. At the same time, young people with substance use disorders should have timely access to treatment and recovery services.

By combining prevention, mental health support, parental involvement, and targeted enforcement, Delaware can reduce youth substance use and help every child build a healthier, more successful future.