Erik Kiehle
LibertarianQ1 What policies, if any, do you support in regulating artificial intelligence use?
The potential benefits are immense, as are the potential risks. I believe America needs to be a leader in the field to at least protect our own interests. Cybersecurity and privacy are concerns that need to be addressed as we move forward with AI.
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?
MS lacks economic wind resources. MS also lacks the “head” for hydro. Solar is an option for MS. I think using military bases for solar and other alternatives is a good policy, both for national security and development and addition of renewables to the grid. NG, coal, and nuclear provide reliable base load generation and will be necessary for the reliability of our national grids for the foreseeable future.
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 don’t see data centers as having a meaningful impact on jobs or the tax base. The environmental impacts are contentious and to some extent unknown. I question the benefits to Americans quality of life.
Q4 What policies, if any, do you support to sustain the agriculture, fisheries, and wildlife of both Mississippi and the United States
Mass deportations and reduced immigration. Zoning is important. Keep ag zones for ag and low-density homesteads.
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?
They have a role, but I’d like to see changes in funding and patents from publicly-funded research benefiting the governments funding the research in a positive feedback loop.
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?
Not a large role. Politicians in general are not scientists and other than funding appropriate goals, should let America’s scientists shine on their own.