Data Centers vs. Community Needs | Spokane News

Eastern Washington’s congressional race exploded this week as incumbent Michael Baumgartner and challenger Carmela Conroy clashed over data centers, water rights, economic policy, and social issues — with the stakes higher than ever for voters in the Evergreen State. While Baumgartner defended federal incentives to stay competitive in the global supercomputer race, Conroy warned of environmental disaster and demanded local control over critical infrastructure like the Spokane River. On economics, Conroy blamed global instability for rising costs, while Baumgartner credited GOP tax cuts — though she called them temporary. The debate also turned sharply on gender-affirming care, with Baumgartner backing a federal ban and Conroy insisting parental autonomy should prevail. Immigration policy drew final fire too, as Baumgartner praised past border security but questioned ICE tactics, while Conroy condemned militarization and urged resources be focused where they matter most — the border itself. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/a7556b3eb6cc9385