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President Trump signed new executive orders to boost coal production, calling it a win for American energy and jobs. These orders lift restrictions on coal mining on federal lands and push to use coal for powering AI data centers. West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey praised the move, saying it helps America compete with China and creates jobs in coal country.
Morrisey joined Fox & Friends to argue coal is vital for national security. He said China relies on coal for its AI and tech growth, so America must do the same. “We can’t let China get ahead,” Morrisey said. His state passed a law to attract data centers by offering cheap coal-powered energy, hoping to bring tech jobs to West Virginia.
The governor’s plan ties coal to cutting-edge tech. He wants old power plants to run longer and new data centers to use West Virginia’s coal. Supporters say this blends tradition with innovation, keeping coal miners working while building a digital future. Critics claim coal is outdated, but Morrisey calls it reliable and affordable.
Trump’s orders reverse Biden-era climate rules, calling them harmful to workers. The White House says coal will help meet rising energy demands from AI. “Clean coal is part of our energy dominance,” a spokesperson said. Though coal jobs have declined, Trump vows to revive the industry and counter China’s growing power.
Environmental groups slammed the orders, saying coal pollutes and renewables are cheaper. But conservatives argue wind and solar can’t match coal’s steady output. They say rushing to green energy left America dependent on China for minerals and tech. Coal, they claim, keeps the lights on and factories running.
West Virginia’s new law blocks local governments from regulating data centers’ energy use. This ensures coal remains the main power source. Lawmakers say it prevents “red tape” from slowing growth. Critics warn it could raise electricity bills, but supporters promise lower costs from coal’s scale.
Morrisey highlighted Trump’s focus on energy independence. “You can’t have national security without energy security,” he said. The governor wants West Virginia to lead in both coal and tech, blending old and new economies. He thanked Trump for backing policies that put miners and tech workers on the same team.
The push for coal faces market challenges, as plants age and gas remains cheap. But conservatives say government support is needed to counter China and protect jobs. They see coal as a symbol of American resilience, promising a future where energy dominance fuels both factories and data centers.
