Katie Stuart
DemocraticQ1 Illinois currently has 138 data centers, with 8 underway, and plans for 29 more. Additionally, the cost of electricity and water are on the rise with nearby data centers straining current resources in combination with increased energy costs to consumers. Data centers also have several environmental and health impacts, such as significant water usage and noise pollution, which can lead to decrease in net economic gains. What policies, if any, do you support in managing existing data centers or establishing additional data centers? What specific plans do you have, if any, to mitigate utility cost burden for residents? Why these steps?
I believe that data centers need to be held under strict regulations, and also be held accountable. The draining of wells that Illinois residents use, as well as the use of clean drinking water communities depend on, is not sustainable and cannot continue at the rate it is. Additionally, the cost burden of these data centers being built should not fall onto the residents of the area, and as such, there needs to be clear restrictions outlining how these data centers can continue to operate, and where additional are allowed to be built. Community affordability, worker safety, and environmental considerations are of the utmost priority when looking at data centers, and I am committed to working on different legislation that can help Illinois residents in these areas.
Q2 Research activities in Illinois heavily depend on federal funding. However, federal funding cuts for science research and agencies like the NIH and National Science Foundation leaves the future for science research less assured. What policies, if any, do you support or plan to implement to secure funding for continued science research at either the state or federal level?
As a State Representative, I have to look at the funding the state of Illinois can provide. I believe it is important to work with science research organizations and agencies in order to understand where funding is needed. I know the impact of the federal cuts will likely impact those areas heavily, and I plan to fight for programs to be protected.
Q3 Illinois is an agricultural hub, making it an important factor for the state’s economy. What policies or plans do you have, or support, to support Illinois agriculture against changing weather patterns?
As our climate continues to change, I plan to work with environmental groups and agricultural agencies to consider legislation that would help protect and support our communities.
Q4 Scientific issues increasingly influence public policy. When developing policy positions or making decisions on topics involving science, how do you seek out information, evaluate scientific evidence and expert input, and ensure your decisions are well informed? If you can, please share an example of when this process influenced your perspective or decision.
I lean heavily on experts in the field when it comes to decision making on policies. Academic and industry expertise partners are a crucial part of working through different aspects of lawmaking. This was an important part of planning for the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), as I consulted with climate experts to make the best choices for Illinois.
Q5 Measles and whooping cough (pertussis) cases are on the rise in Illinois, with multiple outbreaks in 2026. How have you, how do you plan to, address this public health concern? How will you plan to work with relevant stakeholders (epidemiologists, scientists, physicians, for example) to mitigate this problem?
I am very concerned about vaccine hesitancy based upon misinformation. While I believe patients need to make decisions in consultation with physicians, it is also important to have public information, meetings, and shared data to help patients come to the best decisions.