America needs coal. For generations, our nation has relied on coal’s unparalleled benefits as an affordable and dependable energy source to propel us to greatness. Coal miners continue to power everything from cutting-edge manufacturing jobs and future data centers to the lights above our kitchen tables.
As attorneys general from Kentucky and West Virginia, who proudly represent coal country, we applaud President Trump for taking bold steps to safeguard America’s bright coal-powered future. President Trump recently signed four executive orders to combat the wrongheaded policies of the war on coal.
These orders were not just words on paper. They represent a firm commitment to support the men and women of coal communities, as well as everyone else who relies on coal.
We understand what we’re up against. The previous administration appeared intent on dismantling the industry and launching a full-fledged attack on its employees.
Even today, activists at the state level are launching their own attacks, passing anti-coal legislation aimed at out-of-state traditional energy producers and funding lawfare to make coal-related activities prohibitively expensive.
We stood firm against those efforts in Kentucky and West Virginia, with the support of other attorneys general across the country. We sued the Biden administration to stop its radical overreach and anti-coal agenda.
We even won significant victories at the United States Supreme Court to keep the lights on in American cities and towns. And now, we have a steadfast ally in President Donald Trump in the White House.
President Trump recognizes coal’s critical importance to our economy, energy security, and our families’ futures. His executive orders will help to avoid the unnecessary closure of coal-fired power plants, protect the future of our energy grid, and fuel new technology and innovation.
President Trump ends the war on coal
First, President Trump ended the previous administration’s war on coal. He directed every relevant federal agency to defend this critical industry, in stark contrast to President Biden’s multiagency hostility.
As the order recognizes, America will be unable to maintain its leadership position in growing sectors such as artificial intelligence unless it makes a concerted effort to support coal.
In short, the order demonstrates that a political green agenda cannot take precedence over ordinary Americans’ livelihoods and energy security.
Next, the president acknowledged the growing threat to electricity generation and grid reliability. He joined East Kentucky Power Cooperative’s Tony Campbell in urging immediate action to keep our grid operational and secure.
This order properly mobilizes coal as a means to ensure grid reliability, particularly critical baseload power, in the face of an unprecedented surge in electricity demand.
Finally, President Trump provided critical federal support for our ongoing efforts at the state level. Other states are brazenly and illegally attempting to fine our coal producers into oblivion. We are currently on the front lines, challenging New York’s climate change “extortion” law alongside other state and industry partners.
We are confident that we will win the legal battle, and we are grateful for the federal reinforcements that are currently on their way.
With Trump’s help, the coal industry will thrive in Appalachia
We celebrate this new chapter in our energy future alongside the miners who joined President Trump at the White House and those who work in our states. We’re ready to assist our federal partners in putting these historic accomplishments into action.
Working with President Trump, we can continue to advocate for American energy independence and restore the regulatory balance that allows our coal industry to thrive.
Coal has played a significant role in Appalachian history. It should also play a major role in Appalachia’s future. With President Trump’s leadership and the support of state attorneys general, we can ensure that this affordable and reliable energy source is preserved for future generations.
