FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 10, 2025
Phillip C. Parrish, Candidate for Governor of Minnesota 2026, Applauds President Trump’s Executive Order to Revitalize Clean Coal Industry
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – Phillip C. Parrish, candidate for Governor of Minnesota in 2026, today issued a strong endorsement of President Donald J. Trump’s Executive Order, “Reinvigorating America’s Beautiful Clean Coal Industry and Amending Executive Order 14241,” signed on April 8, 2025. Parrish hailed the order as a transformative opportunity for Minnesota, promising to bolster the state’s economy, create high-paying jobs, and secure energy independence through the revitalization of the coal industry.
“Minnesota’s rich industrial heritage and strategic position in the Upper Midwest make this executive order a game-changer for our state,” Parrish said. “By embracing our natural resources and cutting-edge technologies, we can deliver safe, clean, and reliable energy while driving prosperity across Greater Minnesota.”
The executive order’s provisions resonate deeply with Minnesota’s economic potential. Parrish highlighted Section 9, which directs the evaluation of coal as a “critical material” and “critical mineral” under the Energy Act of 2020. Such a designation could spark a resurgence in Minnesota’s steel industry, particularly on the Iron Range, by ensuring affordable access to metallurgical coal for steel production. “This aligns perfectly with my vision to restore economic competitiveness and bring high-paying jobs back to our state,” Parrish noted.
Parrish also praised Section 10 of the order, which focuses on powering artificial intelligence (AI) data centers with coal-based infrastructure. “Minnesota is poised to become a technology hub, and the rising energy demands of AI require a stable, affordable solution,” he said. “Coal’s ability to provide baseload power makes it the ideal choice to attract tech companies, create jobs, and position Minnesota as a leader in the digital economy.”
Emphasizing innovation, Parrish pointed to Section 11, which accelerates the development of clean coal technologies. These advancements, including transforming coal into building materials, battery components, and carbon fiber, promise to minimize environmental impact while maximizing economic benefits. “With modern emissions controls, ‘clean coal’ is more than a buzzword—it’s a reality that can preserve Minnesota’s natural beauty while powering our future,” he said.
The economic upside for Minnesota is clear. By removing federal regulatory barriers and prioritizing coal leasing, as outlined in Sections 5 and 6, the executive order will lower electricity costs for families, stabilize the state’s grid, and create jobs in energy, steel, and technology sectors. Additionally, Section 7’s focus on domestic coal production and exports strengthens national security by reducing reliance on foreign energy—a priority Parrish called “vital for Minnesota and the nation.”
“As Governor, I will seize this opportunity to align Minnesota with President Trump’s bold vision,” Parrish declared. “We will invest in clean coal technologies, revitalize our energy sector, and build an economy that works for all Minnesotans. This is a call to action, and I’m ready to lead our state toward energy innovation and prosperity.”
For more information about Phillip C. Parrish’s campaign for Governor of Minnesota 2026, please contact: campaign manager Heidi Wanty: [email protected] or visit parrish4mn.com
About Phillip C. Parrish
Phillip C. Parrish is a candidate for Governor of Minnesota in 2026, committed to economic growth, energy independence, and prosperity for all Minnesotans. With a focus on leveraging the state’s resources and heritage, Parrish aims to position Minnesota as a leader in innovation and opportunity.
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