Politicians Retreat on AI Amidst Signs of Rising Backlash
2028 Democratic contenders who backed data centers with tax breaks are suddenly retreating amid growing voter revolt over electricity costs and community impacts
Articles from IBEW News
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Evaluating the Jobs Impact
IBEW Local 648 says data centers could bring 800-1,200 construction jobs, but researchers warn facilities are capital-intensive while creating few permanent positions despite massive tax breaks
Centers Seek Credit Ratings to Unlock Billions for AI Push
Data center landlords securing top credit ratings for asset-backed securities to unlock billions in financing, with Compass Datacenters achieving first-ever Aaa rating from Moody's
The Early Contours of An Evolving Political Battle
Nearly half of Americans expect data centers to become a campaign issue within five years, with top concerns centered on electricity bill increases and blackout risks, new Politico poll finds
Local Celebrates Member Service Awards
IBEW Local 1439 honored Stephen Lindewirth for five years of service and Treasurer Ray Rose for 35 years during recent ceremony with President Chad Fletcher
Shipyard Workers Blown Away by Locals' Kindness During Shutdown
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard IBEW Local 2071 members each received $1,000 from Second District locals during six-week government shutdown, rewarding those who rejoined after executive order ended dues deductions
Stronger Together: An IBEW and Civil Rights Veteran's Lessons on Progress (EW)
At 91, Charlie Horhn reflects on a lifetime at the intersection of the Civil Rights and labor movements. Beginning with his work organizing IBEW Local 2268 at a segregated Jackson, Mississippi factory in the 1960s, Horhn draws a direct line between economic justice and civil rights, and the enduring power of solidarity across both movements.
Introducing: The Faster Labor Contracts Act (EW)
Rep. Donald Norcross, the only IBEW represented electrician in Congress has introduced the Faster Labor Contracts Act, which would set enforceable deadlines for first contract negotiations, requiring talks to begin within 10 days of certification and moving to binding arbitration if no agreement is reached within 120 days. IBEW International President Kenneth W. Cooper is urging members to contact their representatives in support of the bill.
Clean Technology Training Trust Launches Podcast: Apprenticeships WORK! (EW)
The Clean Technology Training Trust has launched a new podcast, Apprenticeships WORK!, featuring 9th District International Vice President Dave Reaves discussing the history and value of IBEW joint apprenticeships and how they advance the interests of workers, employers, and communities alike. Available on all major podcast platforms.
Photo Contest Voting Ends: Results in March (EW)
Voting for the 2025 IBEW Photo Contest closed January 31. Winners, including a $1,000 first prize and $750 second prize, will be announced in the March 2026 issue of The Electrical Worker, available online March 1.