Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) is calling for a one-year moratorium on the construction of new data centers in South Carolina, arguing the state needs stronger safeguards in place as the Trump administration pushes to accelerate artificial intelligence development nationwide.

South Carolina has become an increasingly popular destination for data centers, with developers drawn by tax incentives, available land, and expanding energy infrastructure. One estimate puts the number at 44 data centers already operating in the state. By comparison, Virginia and Texas lead the nation with 398 and 296 facilities, respectively.