Business Daily Trump's green retreat
16 snips
Oct 1, 2025 In Middletown, Ohio, the clash between industry and politics unfolds with Donald Trump's executive order halting renewable energy subsidies. Residents share their struggles with pollution and the missed opportunity of a hydrogen-powered furnace that could create jobs and cut emissions. Local reactions reflect disappointment as Cleveland Cliffs withdraws from the upgrade, revealing complexities of green investment and economic trade-offs. The episode dives into how hometown voting influences policies and the town's uncertain future.
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Life Beside The Steel Plant
- Heather Gibson grew up in Middletown and lives a few blocks from the steel plant that dominates town life.
- She describes persistent coke-plant smells, soot on windows and cars, and changing air filters every other week.
Town's Brief Elation Over Hydrogen Plan
- Residents celebrated a planned switch from coke to hydrogen furnaces as a win for air quality and jobs.
- Community excitement spread quickly on Facebook when the hydrogen upgrade was announced.
Grant Promised Big Emissions Cuts And Jobs
- A $500 million Department of Energy grant aimed to cut Middletown Works emissions by up to 70%.
- The project promised 170 permanent jobs and 1,200 construction roles and to supply low-carbon steel to automakers.
