West Virginia Governor: Coal Remains a Strategic Asset in the Race with China
Introduction
In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey emphasized the continued significance of coal as an affordable, reliable, and transportable energy source. He highlighted the importance of investing in coal infrastructure and industry to maintain U.S. competitiveness in the race with China for energy dominance and technological advancement.
Coal’s Role in Energy Security
Governor Morrisey acknowledged that while the U.S. and China are likely to rely on advancements in nuclear energy and natural gas, coal remains a critical component due to its resilience, availability, and affordability. He stated, "I think there’s an opportunity … to increase the capacity of some of the coal-fired power plants that have been slowed down in recent years. Because if we don’t do that, we’re not going to compete with the Chinese."
Coal Industry in West Virginia
West Virginia, known as "America’s energy state," boasts abundant coal resources. In 2021, the state produced 89 million tons of coal, a decline from the 1940s through the late 1990s when it averaged over 130 million tons per year. Governor Morrisey emphasized the need to revitalize the state’s coal infrastructure and industry for national security reasons.
Bipartisan Support for Energy Permitting
Governor Morrisey expressed optimism about the bipartisan discussions at the National Governors Association (NGA) regarding the need to expedite the energy-permitting process at the state and federal levels. He echoed the sentiments of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, who pledged to refund applicants if there were delays or setbacks in the permitting process.
West Virginia’s Role in the AI Arms Race
Beyond energy security, Governor Morrisey discussed West Virginia’s role in the AI (artificial intelligence) arms race with China. He noted the state’s efforts to build on former Governor Jim Justice’s initiatives to develop the state’s tech industry. Justice had said in 2019, "We have so many people in this state who are gifted beyond belief and who will be able to fill these spots and do incredible work. It’s truly a pipeline of talent."
Collaboration with the Trump Administration
Governor Morrisey reflected on his meeting with President Donald Trump, Cabinet secretaries, and fellow governors at the White House. He highlighted the administration’s understanding of the importance of expeditious energy development and its willingness to eliminate unnecessary regulations. He stated, "I think states like West Virginia and Pennsylvania and many other states have a chance to work closely with the Trump administration … They know how important it is to reassert American energy dominance – if you get the permitting right."
Immigration Enforcement and Drug Crisis
Governor Morrisey also discussed his executive order targeting illegal immigration in West Virginia, which led to the detention of dozens of individuals for immigration status verification. He emphasized the state’s vulnerability to drug overdoses and the need to work with the federal government to combat the flow of illegal drugs across the southern border.
Conclusion
Governor Morrisey’s interview underscores the ongoing importance of coal as a strategic energy source and the need to invest in its infrastructure for national security reasons. He highlighted West Virginia’s potential to contribute to the AI arms race with China and expressed optimism about the state’s role in the energy and technology sectors. His views align with the Trump administration’s emphasis on energy dominance, deregulation, and immigration enforcement.
