West Virginia - the heart of America’s coal country - has found its ideal political leadership in incoming President Donald Trump, Governor Patrick Morrisey, Senators Capito and Justice and Congressional Representatives Miller and Moore. Add in our state legislative leadership of Hanshaw and Smith, their legislative colleagues and members of the Board of Public Works, together, they represent a bright new dawn for our state, one where the coal industry isn’t just surviving but thriving. They bring a bold vision, unwavering commitment, and proven leadership that promises to elevate West Virginia's economy and protect its way of life.
President Trump has consistently demonstrated his dedication to coal and the hardworking men and women who mine it. His America First energy policies during his first term revitalized the industry, rolling back burdensome regulations, restoring fair treatment of coal in energy markets, and giving our miners the respect they deserve. His return to office promises to pick up where he left off, fostering an environment where coal is recognized as a vital national resource rather than an industry to be sidelined.
Governor Patrick Morrisey, a fierce advocate for coal and constitutional rights, has long been a stalwart champion of West Virginia's energy sector. As Attorney General, he stood up to the federal overreach of the Obama-era Clean Power Plan, leading the charge in the landmark Supreme Court case West Virginia v. EPA. His leadership saved thousands of jobs and proved that West Virginia would not bow to misguided policies that threaten its economy and energy security.
The Trump-Morrisey partnership is one of shared priorities and mutual respect for the role coal plays in powering America and supporting our local communities. Their vision is clear: support coal jobs, invest in clean coal technologies, and ensure our miners have the tools and opportunities to succeed in the global marketplace.
They have an extraordinary supporting cast in place for critical assistance on every level and it's hard to see how this lineup could possibly fail. West Virginia’s coal families deserve leaders who fight for them, not against them. Trump and Morrisey understand that coal is more than just an industry, it’s a lifeline for thousands of families, a pillar of our state’s identity, and a foundation of America’s energy independence.
With President Trump in the White House and Governor Morrisey in Charleston, West Virginia has the leadership it needs to protect its proud heritage, create new opportunities, and show the world that coal country is here to stay. Together, this dream team is poised to make West Virginia’s bright future a reality.
With world coal use on the rise and West Virginia’s coal desired around the globe, our best years could very well be ahead of us as new markets emerge and opportunities multiply.
The West Virginia Coal Association welcomes our political leadership in the White House, Congress, the Governor's mansion and Statehouse . We look forward to working with them to make West Virginia the energy capital of America and the world.
Chris Hamilton
President/CEO
West Virginia Coal Association