US News Headlines April 27th 2025
US Coal Industry and Proposed Changes Under Trump Administration
President Donald Trump's administration has proposed several changes to benefit the struggling US coal industry. Executive orders have allowed mining on federal land, and some older coal-fired power plants set for retirement will continue producing electricity due to growing demand in data centers, artificial intelligence, and electric cars.
Coal Industry Decline
The coal industry has been in decline for decades, with production falling from 1 billion tons in 2014 to 578 million tons by 2023. Employment peaked in the 1920s at around 900,000 miners but declined steadily since 1980, reaching 45,476 in 2023.
Targeting MSHA
The proposed changes include reducing funding for the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), which enforces US mine safety laws. This could lead to less thorough inspections as inspectors may have to travel farther to reach mines.
Other Uses for Coal
Industry advocates argue that there are other uses for coal, including creating synthetic materials and carbon foam used in defense industry applications.
Arrests Linked to DHS Secretary Robbery
Two suspects were arrested in connection with a robbery involving Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. The primary defendant is alleged to have committed a robbery against the secretary, while the second suspect is believed to be a co-conspirator.
Collaboration and Investigation
The Secret Service worked closely with the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, D.C., and other agencies in both investigations. The agents involved pursued every lead with precision and determination through complex, multi-jurisdictional investigations.
These news summaries provide an overview of recent events related to the US coal industry and proposed changes under the Trump administration, as well as arrests linked to a robbery involving Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.