CHARLESTON, WV — Gov. Jim Justice issued the following statement today following the news that Cleveland-Cliffs is closing their Weirton facility:
“The news of Cleveland-Cliffs closing their Weirton operation hits me like a ton of bricks. Nearly 900 West Virginia jobs are lost; it’s a gut punch to families, to the community and to our state’s very spirit.
And it’s all because of an unwise, irresponsible decision by the United States International Trade Commission. This commission has only four members, three of which were appointed by President Barack Obama. Their decision denied proposed import tariffs on tin mill products from China, Canada, and Germany that the U.S. Department of Commerce determined are sold in the United States at less than fair value and directly subsidized by the government of China.
Their decision effectively allows cheap steel to continue flooding into our country, which forced Cleveland-Cliffs to close their facility and will further decimate America’s steel industry in the days and weeks to come.
These four unelected bureaucrats should not have the power to unilaterally dismantle an American industry with no oversight. I’m calling on our President and Congress to reign in this commission and not idly stand by while American workers and communities suffer.
President Trump’s tariffs on steel imports worked because they put America first. They protected America’s steel industry and prevented a disastrous decision like this from occurring. It was shortsighted and foolish for President Biden to reverse them in the name of politics.
To all those in the Weirton community, here’s what I am doing:
Immediately deploy an Economic Development Task Force:This team will hit the ground running to identify and attract businesses seeking incredible facilities like this one, leveraging every incentive within our power. I am directing this team to continue working with the company as well to explore any and all options available in this unacceptable situation.
Immediately deploy a Workforce WV Quick Response Team:This team, with experts in job training and relocation assistance will hit the ground running to connect affected workers with new opportunities. This team will provide personalized training and certification programs to equip workers with the latest skills, ensuring they are competitive in any industry. No one will be left behind; we’ll tailor support based on your individual needs and goals.
West Virginians are known for their grit and resilience. We’ve overcome challenges before, and we’ll overcome this one too. Together, we’ll ensure Weirton emerges stronger, with a brighter future for all.”
