Burlison blames China for hate against data centers

Southwest Missouri Congressman Eric Burlison said concerns about data centers straining southwest Missouri's water supply are overblown and argued that communities should focus on the economic benefits the facilities can provide.

During an interview on Newstalk KZRG's Morning Newswatch, the Missouri Republican responded to listener questions about proposed data center projects and federal government spending.

Burlison pointed to recent efforts to secure additional water resources for the Joplin area.

"After decades, I was able to get a water allocation to the Joplin area so that we could address all of the threats for decades of generational needs for drinking water," Burlison said, referring to an allocation from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

The congressman challenged claims that data centers consume excessive amounts of water, saying many modern facilities use closed-loop cooling systems that require little ongoing water use.

"From what I understand, most of them use less water than a car wash," Burlison said.

He also highlighted the tax revenue generated by data centers, citing a facility in McDonald County that he said operates with little impact on nearby residents while producing substantial local tax revenue.

Burlison additionally warned listeners to be cautious about information they encounter online regarding data centers, claiming foreign actors, including China, have sought to influence public opinion on the issue.

The congressman also discussed concerns about federal spending and oversight within the Department of Defense, referencing testimony presented during a recent hearing focused on government waste, fraud and abuse.

Burlison said lawmakers heard examples of excessive military spending, including reports of a $1,500 coffee cup purchased through defense contracts.

"We've always heard about the toilet seats and the hammers, but this still goes on," he said.

The congressman argued that federal agencies should face stricter auditing requirements and greater transparency regarding government expenditures.

According to Burlison, some agencies have historically failed to provide detailed descriptions of purchases, making oversight more difficult.

He credited recent government efficiency efforts with improving reporting requirements but said additional reforms are needed to ensure taxpayer funds are spent appropriately.

When asked who should be held accountable for questionable spending practices, Burlison placed responsibility on elected officials rather than career government employees.

"I say blame the politicians and the ones that are not trying to do their due diligence," he said.

Burlison also reiterated his opposition to renewing certain surveillance authorities under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, commonly known as FISA. He said he voted against reauthorization because of concerns about government surveillance and constitutional protections.

"The Constitution is more important," Burlison said. "If they want to be able to spy on Americans, they need to get a warrant to do so because the Constitution demands it."

The congressman said lawmakers must be willing to question agency funding requests rather than approving them without scrutiny.