Trump Recognized as Champion of Coal Industry
WASHINGTON – On Wednesday, President Donald Trump received an award representing coal miners across the nation, hailed as “the undisputed champion of beautiful, clean coal.”
The recognition was presented to him by Peabody Energy CEO James Grech in the East Room of the White House, right before Trump signed an executive order instructing the Department of the Army to prioritize power purchases from the U.S. coal sector.
Grech noted, “To show our gratitude, the trophy reads ‘Undisputed Champion of Beautiful and Clean Coal,'” which earned a standing ovation, particularly from miners in attendance.
Following this, Trump signed the order. The directive emphasized that the Department of the Army should “prioritize long-term power purchase agreements with America’s beautiful, clean coal fleet to ensure uninterrupted, on-demand baseload power for military and critical defense installations.”
According to a White House announcement, the order directs the Secretary of the Army, in collaboration with the Secretary of Energy, to approve long-term power purchase agreements with coal-fired energy production facilities serving Army installations and other essential facilities.
Projects enhancing grid reliability, outage protection, and fuel security will be given priority, ensuring mission assurance for defense and intelligence functions.
Before the signing, Trump made a light-hearted jab, stating, “We don’t use autopens,” indirectly criticizing former President Joe Biden.
He pointed out that the average miner’s real wage has risen by $2,200 since he took office, noting that this increase is the largest in almost three decades.
“The most important people here today are those who get their hands a little dirty to keep America running: our frontline coal workers. I’m pleased to report that in my first year in office, real wages for the typical miner have increased by over $2,200,” he stated.
He remarked, “And the bad news is, this is the first time in more than 27 years that something like this has occurred. Previous presidents didn’t think highly of you.”
Trump also mentioned that his administration has approved over 70 permits for new mining projects, contrasting with Biden’s tenure, where none were approved.
