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The West Virginia Coal Association today applauded President Donald J. Trump’s announcement of approximately $700 million in federal investment to strengthen America’s coal fleet, including funding for a new coal-fired power plant in West Virginia.
The initiative, led by the U.S. Department of Energy and supported through the Defense Production Act, includes $185 million in grant funding to support new coal generation projects, with West Virginia selected as a key site for new development. The plan also directs $425 million to upgrade 13 existing coal-fired power plants nationwide and $75 million to enhance coal export infrastructure.
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There are moments when events strip away the luxury of theory and force a return to first principles. This is one of those moments. Recently, President Donald Trump invoked the Defense Production Act to strengthen America’s coal supply chains and reinforce the backbone of reliable, affordable electric generation. The order authorizes federal support for mining, transportation, export and domestic terminals, generating unit availability, and long-term fuel security. It is a direct acknowledgment that coal remains indispensable to the stability of the American power system and to the broader national interest.
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The West Virginia Coal Association today announced its endorsement of 17 candidates for State Senate, touting their strong record and clear commitment to protecting coal jobs and advancing an America First energy policy.
“This May 12th, West Virginians have a clear choice,” said Chris Hamilton, President of the West Virginia Coal Association. “These 17 candidates for State Senate understand that our state’s economy and our communities depend on a strong coal industry and reliable American energy.”
The endorsed list of candidates include:
- Laura Chapman for State Senate in District 1
- Toby Heaney for State Senate in District 2
- Mike Azinger for State Senate in District 3
- Trenton Barnhart for State Senate in District 3
- Mark Maynard for State Senate in District 6
- Zack Maynard for State Senate in District 7
- Kevan Bartlett for State Senate in District 8
- Rollan Roberts for State Senate in District 9
- Jonathan Comer for State Senate in District 10
- Robert Karnes for State Senate in District 11
- Ben Queen for State Senate in District 12
- John Williams for State Senate in District 13
- Jay Taylor for State Senate in District 14
- Darren Thorne for State Senate in District 15
- Jason Barrett for State Senate in District 16
- Anne Charnock for State Senate in District 17
- Chris Pritt for State Senate in District 17
Hamilton said these candidates have been vocal advocates for coal and consistent opponents of federal policies that threaten West Virginia’s energy sector. They will fight Biden-era regulatory overreach and ensure that coal remains a cornerstone of the state’s economy.
“We need leaders who will stand firm for American energy independence,” Hamilton added. “These candidates will be that type of leader in the State Senate.”
The West Virginia Coal Association encourages voters to support candidates who will protect the state’s energy economy and preserve its way of life.
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Coal has long been the backbone of West Virginia’s economy, the bedrock of our energy system, and a symbol of the strength and resolve of the American worker. While critics continue to write off coal as a relic of the past, the truth is that coal remains as vital today as it ever was—powering homes, businesses, manufacturing plants, and the very economy that fuels our daily lives.
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During West Virginia Mining Symposium and Coal Show, which took place March 31-April 1 in Charleston, the West Virginia Coal Association recognized and celebrated “Exemplary Mine Safety & Environmental Excellence” achievements of mining industry operations across the state.
“West Virginia’s coal industry continues to show its resilience and commitment to excellence across the board,” West Virginia Coal Association President Chris Hamilton said. “It’s always a proud day for us when we can recognize those who excel in safety and reclamation, showing that the best and brightest in the industry are right here in West Virginia.”
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