Matt Gromlich
DemocraticQ1 There are currently over 20 data centers in Louisiana, with major companies recently announcing investments of $3.6 billion to $10 billion to build data centers in the state. How, if at all, do you see data centers impacting Louisiana’s, and the wider United States’, economy, livelihoods and environment?
While the data centers claim that they will bring in economic benefits, those benefits have yet to be seen. In other states, the claims have been shown to be highly inflated. Additionally, there is a huge environmental aspect to data centers that we have not investigated or researched. Before we build any new data centers, we must conduct scientific studies on how these data centers will impact our health, our water, our land, our flora, and our fauna.
Q2 Louisiana has the highest rate of wetlands loss in the United States, and within the past 100 years, Louisiana’s barrier islands have decreased in area by more than 40 percent. Among other things, coastal land loss puts people and property at higher risk of being impacted by hurricanes; this was acknowledged in 2017, when the then-government declared a state of emergency for the Louisiana coast. Shoreline restoration and the management of natural buffer zones has shown promise in lessening the damage from hurricanes. What strategies, if any, would you support as a leader to protect our coastal communities?
We must protect our coastal communities. As mentioned, this means shoreline restoration is necessary. As a congressman, I will support funding shoreline restoration projects and provide funding for our natural buffer zones.
Q3 Louisiana is a state inextricably tied to its waterways, whether it be through fishing, tourism, irrigation, or the water we all need to drink. What actions, if any, will you take to ensure the health of Louisiana’s rivers and lakes?
Water is one of the most important resources. We must protect our water and our waterways. One aspect is investing in our drinking water. Louisiana municipal water facilities have continued to earn failing grades. It is necessary for congressional members to work with municipal officials to help make our water better.
Q4 Do you think elected officials have a role in working with scientists to build the general public’s trust in science? How, if at all, do you envision working with scientists?
Absolutely. My background is science and science education (Bachelor’s in Chemistry, Bachelor’s in Science Education, and Master’s in Agriculture & Extension Education). We need to work with scientists to improve our state. As your next congressman, I would have a science advisory board that would provide necessary input into all decisions.
Q5 What role, if any, do you see community-based institutions like K–12 schools and community colleges playing a role in strengthening science and research across our state, and what policies, if any, would you support for these institutions?
I am a life-long educator. I have taught secondary mathematics and science and now I teach future secondary mathematics and science educators at LSU-Shreveport. Science literacy begins at school. We must strengthen science programs in our K-12 schools, community colleges, and higher education institutions. I support funding research that helps push our society forward.
Q6 Energy affordability is a significant issue among our communities, with costs rising across the state and nation. Alternative sources of energy (such as wind, solar, hydroelectric, or geothermal) may help with affordability. What role, if any, do you see alternative forms of energy playing in Louisiana’s future?
While Louisiana has benefited from oil and natural gas, we can not rely on these energy sources forever. We must branch out into the renewable energy sector. Solar energy could be a great benefit to Louisiana and its residents, who consistently pay more and more each year on utilities.