Former U.S. President Donald Trump revived his support for the coal industry during a campaign-style rally in Pittsburgh on Tuesday, telling the crowd that the fossil fuel should be referred to only as “clean, beautiful coal.” Trump argued that rebranding the fuel would help the public better appreciate its purported environmental improvements. Trump’s remarks echo his administration’s earlier efforts to ease regulations on coal production and promote technologies such as carbon capture. The comments drew fresh criticism from environmental advocates and some lawmakers, who say the notion of “clean coal” overstates the sector’s progress in reducing emissions.
President Donald Trump in Pittsburgh: "You're not allowed to call it 'coal.' You have to call it 'clean, beautiful coal.' You're not allowed, Jon [Gray], to call it just coal 'cause people don't understand. We call it 'clean, beautiful coal.'" https://t.co/HyavruIRRA
JUST IN - Trump: "You’re not allowed call it coal, you have to call it clean, beautiful coal" https://t.co/czurQ9cP4o
Trump: You’re not allowed call it coal, you have to call it clean, beautiful coal https://t.co/CgRsFTJ8YX