Lawmakers are reevaluating the federal government's approach to protecting data centers from cyber and physical threats. The House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Protection held a hearing to discuss the matter, with industry witnesses suggesting that designating data centers as a standalone critical infrastructure sector could be a viable solution. This proposal comes as data centers face increasing threats, including those fueled by artificial intelligence. The growth of data centers has made them a prime target for adversaries, highlighting the need for a more robust defense strategy. Experts argue that a standalone designation would enable more targeted and effective security measures, better equipping the government to defend against evolving threats1. The outcome of this discussion will have significant implications for the security of sensitive data and infrastructure, making it essential for practitioners to stay informed about developments in data center protection.