The Wall Street Journal is reporting President Trump will announce early this afternoon that a new steel plant will be built in Iowa.
Information provided by the White House to the newspaper indicates a company called Mesabi Metallics plans to build a $15 billion steel mill in eastern Iowa. The company has recently opened an iron ore mine and processing plant in northern Minnesota, the first to open in the U-S in 50 years. That plant is producing the pellets used to make steel.
The Iowa Legislature may be called into special session soon to approve a package of tax breaks for the proposed Mesabi steel plant in Iowa. Democrats in the House have issued written statements this morning.
“I’ve heard from Iowans all across the state who are struggling with high prices of diesel, housing, and groceries, who are looking for relief, so I look forward to reviewing the details of the plan,” House Minority Leader Brian Meyer (D-Des Moines), said. “There is still a lot unknown, but my hope is this will be a step in the right direction to create good-paying jobs while being fiscally responsible.”
Representative Dave Jacoby (D-Coralville) is the top Democrat on the House Ways and Means Committee. “As Iowa families continue to face high costs, we’re encouraged by the potential for new jobs and economic investment in Southeast Iowa,” Jacoby said. “We look forward to seeing the details and making sure any proposal delivers for Iowa workers while protecting Iowa taxpayers.”