Data Center Super PAC Backs Masterson in Kansas Governor Race

A new political action committee aligned with the data center industry has committed more than $1.5 million to support Kansas state Sen. Ty Masterson in the race for governor. Building the Future, a group linked to the pro-artificial intelligence super PAC Leading the Future, announced the financial backing on Monday. The spending aims to help the Republican candidate unseat Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly in a competitive contest.

The group also plans to spend approximately $1.5 million on advertising in South Carolina. Those funds will support Republican Sen. Darline Graham in her bid to retain her Senate seat. Building the Future emerged from the Leading the Future network, which has become a major force in midterm elections by promoting policies favorable to the AI and data center sectors.

In August, a nonprofit within the same network, Build American AI, launched a multimillion-dollar campaign in Kansas, Ohio, and Wisconsin. The initiative sought to advance legislation governing data center growth. At that time, the organization formally established Building the Future to support candidates who advocate for specific industry standards.

The group stated its mission is to back leaders who promote policies that protect local communities and water resources. It also seeks to prevent electricity rate hikes and maintain U.S. leadership in artificial intelligence. These goals come as opposition to data center development intensifies nationwide due to the infrastructure required for the AI boom.

Kansas is one of the few Democratic-controlled governorships where Republicans have a realistic chance of victory this fall. The Cook Political Report lists the race as leaning Republican. The state also hosts a closely watched Senate contest between Republican Sen. Roger Marshall and Democratic candidate Adam Hamilton.

Gov. Laura Kelly, Masterson’s opponent, responded to the spending in a Monday statement. She described Masterson as a representative for large technology companies who wants to place data centers in every corner and cornfield. Kelly argued that Masterson will grant tax breaks to these firms while increasing costs for ordinary residents.

Kelly said she would continue fighting for regulations on data centers and prioritizing the interests of Kansas voters. Masterson has previously opposed moratoriums on construction and supported a 2025 law that exempted data center investments from sales tax. Kelly voted for that legislation but has since called for a statewide pause on new developments.