Crosby, Moore debate data centers, Great Salt Lake, economy

During a lively debate at **Utah State University**, Democratic challenger **Peter Crosby** and incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. **Blake Moore** squared off in the race for Utah’s 2nd Congressional District, focusing heavily on proposed energy and industrial developments in Box Elder County.

### The Stratos Project & Local Control

The debate placed the controversial **Stratos Project** — a proposed multi-thousand-acre hyperscale data center campus and natural gas generation facility in unincorporated Box Elder County — at center stage:

* **Crosby's Position**: Criticized outside influence on local governance, arguing county commissioners should have voted "not yet" to ensure comprehensive environmental impact studies and safeguard agricultural water allocations. He highlighted direct concerns raised by Box Elder ranchers about multi-generational ranch viability.

* **Moore's Position**: Acknowledged growing nationwide infrastructure demand while agreeing that public engagement regarding the Box Elder proposal should have begun earlier. He pointed to structured public-private models like the Falcon Hill project near Hill Air Force Base as frameworks for future development.

### MIDA Oversight & Natural Resources

The candidates also addressed the statutory authority of the **Military Installation Development Authority (MIDA)** in local land use:

* **State vs. Local Authority**: Discussion centered on balancing statewide economic initiatives with municipal zoning autonomy and water preservation.

* **Great Salt Lake & Climate**: Both candidates emphasized water conservation across northern Utah, addressing the environmental health of the Great Salt Lake and protecting the regional agricultural economy.