Carl Boyanton
IndependentQ1 What policies, if any, do you support in regulating artificial intelligence use?
I think there are checks and balances we need to put in place. We also have to be cognizant of the fact that China and our enemies have none. Once elected I would delve into what needs to be done to protect the American people and what processes we need to put in place.
Q2 Mississippi has an energy-intensive economy; about 78% of energy generated in the state in 2024 was natural gas-focused. What role, if any, do you see alternative forms of energy (such as wind, solar, hydroelectric, and geothermal) playing in the mix of both Mississippian and American energy sources in the long term?
I believe as our energy consumption grows so will our sources. I met with the CEO of NanoNuclear a year ago and they are on the cusp of developing small safe nuclear generators that can power small cities from a unit the size of a semi trailer.I don’t support the dirty energy that manufactures solar and wind turbines. I am an all of the above person and believe we will solve our energy needs in the near future. AI will be a big part of that solution.
Q3 Mississippi currently has approximately 20 data centers, with companies recently announcing major investments of $750 million to $25 billion to build data centers in the state. How do you see data centers impacting Mississippi’s, and the wider United States’, economy, livelihoods and environment?
I think we need the data centers but they have to be responsible neighbors. They have to be located in areas that they are suited for and not increase the prices for electricity and water to the citizens where they are located. I believe we need to lead the charge on AI and not fall behind our enemies. AI is too important to lose to China. But saying that we have to make sure we use common sense in growing this knowledge.
Q4 What policies, if any, do you support to sustain the agriculture, fisheries, and wildlife of both Mississippi and the United States
My background includes agriculture. I work at trying to bring more business to small farms here in Mississippi and the US. We need to encourage more farming and develop more small farms. I work with Blacpac.us to help them build homes for Veterans and have encouraged them to build small farms in rural areas for Vets so they have a home and an income. It’s important to support our fisheries in the same manner.
Q5 Do you see community-based institutions like K–12 schools and community colleges playing a role in strengthening science and research across our state? If so, what policies do you support regarding these institutions?
As they stand now I don’t believe they are pushing the subjects that will resonate in the future. We need schools to go back to basics. Reading, writing, math and science except with an emphasis on technology. We have to start educating our kids in what we expect the future to look like. Science is one of the most important subjects that doesn’t get enough support.
Q6 Do you think elected officials have a role in working with scientists to build the general public’s trust in science? If so, what plans do you have to work with scientists?
It is incumbent on politicians to work with scientists. That is why it’s so important to elect the right people. After Covid trust of scientists is at an all time low. Unfortunately it’s because it has become about money and not science. The most important thing to acquire trust is for the science to be transparent. I will work with scientists that are transparent on their studies and their goal is for what is best for the US and not just for the money.