How Janet Mills’ data center veto reverberated around the country

When Maine seemed poised to pass the nation’s first temporary ban on new data center development, the country started to pay attention. Gov. Janet Mills shot down the measure, LD 307, late last week. Critics — including environmental advocates and other political figures — were quick to condemn the move. Some prominent members of her own party said they would have made a different call. But others, including labor unions and developers eyeing Maine, praised Mills for taking a stand for local interests amid national scrutiny. The move could have major political ramifications for Mills, who is badly trailing political newcomer Graham Platner in the race for the chance to unseat Republican incumbent Susan Collins.