A Senate bill meant to address voter concerns about data centers and energy costs failed to advance on Wednesday.

It needed 60 votes but fell short, 57-43.

The vote came as lawmakers left Washington to campaign before the midterms.

The bill would require utility regulators to consider a federal standard.

Under it, large power customers would pay rates covering the system upgrades needed to serve them.

Democrats called it a mere suggestion and said more is needed.

Republicans said it sends a message to regulators to act.

The sponsor, Republican Sen. Jon Husted of Ohio, faces a tough reelection fight.

His Democratic challenger, former Sen. Sherrod Brown, has labeled him the "face of data centers" in campaign ads.

Husted told reporters the bill was the only way to show voters whose side lawmakers are on.

The measure passed the House 417-3, but it needed at least seven Democratic senators to move forward.

Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer called the bill "a fraud, plain and simple."

Democrats have offered competing proposals.

Sen. Martin Heinrich of New Mexico sponsored legislation directing the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to issue mandatory rules for large electricity customers.

Schumer said Democrats want the requirement to be mandatory, while Republicans want it optional.

About 6 in 10 Americans support limiting new data centers, and a majority are concerned about their impact on electricity prices and water supplies.