David Bankert
RepublicanQ1 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. How will you navigate the economic, public health, and environmental impacts when considering new data centers and data center permissions, in general?
I evaluate data center proposals primarily by scale. Hyperscale centers (over one million square feet) require a distinct evaluation process compared to average-sized facilities. While advanced data infrastructure is essential to remaining competitive, facilities of that size may not be suitable for North Carolina. However, average and smaller-sized data centers are well-suited for our state, as their economic, public health, and environmental impacts are significantly easier to manage. Regarding utility rates, my baseline principle is that non-data center consumers must not subsidize these operations or see their electric bills increase.
Q2 North Carolina is a growing hub for science and biotechnology industry and education. How will you ensure science workforce preparedness in community-based institutions like K–12 schools and community colleges across our state?
Workforce readiness begins with a strong foundational education. K-12 schools should focus on core educational basics in grades K-8, followed by broad access to STEM curricula in high school. Additionally, we should foster direct partnerships between schools and local science and engineering businesses through industry visits, field trips, and workforce mentorship programs.
Q3 What steps, if any, do you believe government should take to protect public health and community wellbeing (e.g., vaccine access, environmental health risks such as PFAS or asbestos, disease prevention, or emergency preparedness)?
Every American should have access to basic food, shelter, clothing, and healthcare. Addressing environmental health risks, particularly PFAS contamination and general waste management, must be a high priority, guided by a strong commitment to environmental stewardship. For emergency preparedness, we should examine and adopt successful international models. Regarding vaccines, based on my personal family experiences, I hold significant concerns about their safety and usage.
Q4 As the world is becoming more information dense, science mistrust has grown. How do you think elected officials can work with scientists to build the general public’s trust in science?
Building trust in science is complex, as public perception is often influenced by media, financial interests, and institutional challenges. Because the scientific process inherently relies on continuous questioning and verification, the most effective way to foster public trust is for the scientific community to maintain rigorous self-regulation and transparency.