Christina Woerner McInnis pledged to conduct a comprehensive review of data centers and solar farms if elected Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries.
McInnis, who is in a runoff against Douglas Mayor Corey Hill for the Republican nomination, outlined the importance of taking a proactive stance to protect farmland.
"For generations, Alabama farmland has fed our families, supported local jobs and strengthened local economies," McInnis said. "As conversations around data centers and large-scale development accelerate, we have a responsibility to ensure growth never comes at the expense of our farmers, our communities, or our ability to feed ourselves."
McInnis called for a full review of the impacts of data centers and solar farms on the agriculture industry, including farmland preservation, water availability, energy demand and long-term food security. She said she would review land conversion trends, evaluate impacts on water access and study energy demands.
The plan includes protecting farmers and preserving farmland.
"Food security is national security," McInnis said. "We cannot afford to wake up years from now and realize we traded away productive farmland and rural communities without understanding the consequences. Alabama can grow and innovate while still protecting what makes our state strong."
If elected on June 16, McInnis vowed not to take a paycheck.
"Like President Trump, I'm not running for a paycheck," McInnis added. "I'm running to protect Alabama's future and serve the people who make this state great."
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