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EXCLUSIVE In a recent interview with Fox News Digital during the National Governors Association’s winter meeting, West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey emphasized the enduring significance of coal as a vital source of energy. He described coal as affordable, reliable, and easily transportable, asserting that the United States possesses substantial reserves of this resource.
China’s competition in energy and artificial intelligence development remains a pressing concern for Morrisey. He expressed his ambition for West Virginia to play a leading role in establishing energy dominance in the face of global competition.
Morrisey stated, “I’m still very hopeful that there’s a future for coal. Let me explain why: We’re right now about to embark on an information technology arms race with China.” His prioritization of coal underscores his belief in the importance of energy independence and technological advancement.
He further added, “We must catch up to what they’re doing regarding the Chinese use of coal and various fuel sources. This is essential as they advance in artificial intelligence, robotics, and advanced manufacturing capabilities.”
Amid the evolution of energy sources, coal retains a reputation for resiliency and availability, according to the governor. He indicated a need for increased production capacity at coal-fired power plants that have been underutilized in recent years, asserting that without this enhancement, the U.S. might struggle to compete with China.
One of Morrisey’s top priorities is to revive and enhance West Virginia’s coal industry and infrastructure. He stated, “I think that it’s sorely needed from a national security perspective.” This viewpoint aligns with the broader dialogue surrounding energy security and its implications for economic stability.
In 2021, West Virginia produced 89 million tons of coal, marking a significant decline compared to the averages of over 130 million tons from the 1940s to the late 1990s, according to the state’s miners’ office. The drop reflects ongoing shifts in the energy landscape and changing industry dynamics.
While Wyoming leads the nation in coal production, West Virginia follows alongside Pennsylvania, Kentucky, and Illinois. Morrisey proudly claimed, “West Virginia is America’s energy state. We’re rich in resources: coal, natural gas, and water. We have numerous opportunities ahead of us.” His comments reflect a determination to position West Virginia as a central player in America’s energy landscape.
At the recent NGA meeting, substantive bipartisan discussions focused on streamlining the energy-permitting process on state and federal levels. “When considering how to harness these opportunities, one must address transmission and permitting challenges,” Morrisey noted. His collaborative approach mirrors that of Democratic Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, who expressed commitment to expedite applications to eliminate delays.
Morrisey also highlighted the potential for West Virginia to enhance its role in the technology sector amidst an AI arms race with China. Building on initiatives introduced by his predecessor, now-Senator Jim Justice, Morrisey aims to amplify the state’s tech industry.
Justice reiterated in 2019, “We must do everything possible to attract high-tech companies and jobs in West Virginia. Our population is immensely talented, and many individuals are equipped to contribute significantly to this sector.” Insights such as these affirm the focus on fostering economic resilience through technology and innovation.
During the NGA meeting, Morrisey reflected on his discussions with President Donald Trump and fellow governors regarding energy policies. “They recognize that energy cannot be moved at a slow pace. We are keen to partner with them,” he stated. Trump expressed intentions to eliminate ten regulations for every new one introduced, aiming to facilitate a more efficient regulatory environment.
Morrisey articulated the potential for collaboration between states like West Virginia and Pennsylvania within the Trump administration. “It will be much easier to work together because they value the restoration of American energy dominance, provided that permitting processes are streamlined,” he stated.
Additionally, Morrisey addressed his administration’s response to illegal immigration and the flow of opioids across the southern border. Last month, he enacted an executive order targeting illegal immigration, which resulted in the detention of over sixty individuals pending verification of their immigration status.
Highlighting West Virginia’s troubling position as the state with the highest per capita drug overdose deaths, Morrisey asserted the necessity of stringent immigration enforcement. He aligned his approach with Trump’s policies, emphasizing their importance in alleviating the state’s ongoing crises.
“We are collaborating closely with ICE to identify and deport illegal aliens. This is crucial as removing them reduces crime, as stated by President Trump,” Morrisey explained. His comments emphasize the interconnectedness of immigration policy and community safety.
Morrisey highlighted the overarching need for states to partner with the federal government to reclaim stability and address the detrimental consequences of increased illegal immigration. He noted, “West Virginia has faced profound challenges due to the influx of illegal drugs from Mexican cartels, particularly fentanyl from China.”
This narrative showcases not just a state focused on its energy sector but also a broader commitment to addressing interconnected challenges facing West Virginia, balancing ambition with immediate public safety concerns.
Fox News Digital’s Sophia Compton contributed to this report.
