Senate Eyes Pre-Election Vote on Data Center Power Costs
Senate Majority Leader John Thune said the chamber will return next week to finish business before the November midterms, with a possible test vote on the Ratepayer Protection Act. The bill would require state regulators to consider standards ensuring large data centers pay for electric grid upgrades, and it passed the House 417-3. Democrats have blocked a quick Senate vote, while Sen. Jon Husted, facing a tough reelection race, supports it.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune said the chamber will return next week to complete work before November's midterms. He identified the Ratepayer Protection Act as a leading candidate for a procedural test vote. The House approved it 417-3; Senate Democrats prevented Sen. Jon Husted's request to send it quickly to President Donald Trump. Husted, in a competitive Ohio race against Sherrod Brown, argues the measure addresses consumer costs.
Also queued is a congressional stock-trading ban, though a photo-ID provision makes advancement unlikely. The Senate is set to pass college sports name, image and likeness legislation Monday after a 74-25 cloture vote. Thune also hopes to confirm Keith Sonderling as Labor secretary, pending unresolved issues.
If the Senate advances the Ratepayer Protection Act, state regulators could face new pressure to make data centers bear more electricity-network upgrade costs, potentially easing bills for some households and businesses. Data center developers may see higher expenses or slower projects. The vote could also shape Ohio's Senate race, where Husted's support may appeal to cost-conscious voters. If Democrats block it, affordability messaging may remain central before the midterms, though the bill's voluntary nature may limit real-world effects.