A missing senator, a failed search and two dead data center bills: State Senate’s chaotic day

PIERRE – A member’s unexplained absence and an unsuccessful search for him contributed to the defeat of two bills intended to incentivize data centers Feb. 24 during a chaotic afternoon for South Dakota state senators.

“It’s not a good look for the Senate,” said Sen. Tim Reed, R-Brookings.

The absent senator was John Carley, a Republican from Piedmont and an opponent of both bills. As the fate of th…