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Five US coastal states challenge Trump over offshore wind projects

The governors of five states urged the Trump administration to maintain permits for threatened offshore wind projects, citing massive investments and jobs at stake in a nascent industry.

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The governors of Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York and New Jersey issued a joint statement calling on the Trump administration to uphold permits granted for offshore wind projects, several of which are already under construction. The statement was released on Labour Day, highlighting the role of these projects in American industrial employment.

Projects under threat after budget cuts

The response comes days after the announcement of the cancellation of more than £500 million ($633mn) in funding for a dozen offshore wind projects in the northeast region. This decision could result in the loss of thousands of jobs, both unionised and non-unionised, and suspend port and industrial works initiated over several years.

More than 5,000 workers are currently engaged in the sector, according to figures cited by the governors. They also highlight ripple effects in over 40 states, where components required for turbines are manufactured.

Private investments at risk

State representatives argue that the threatened projects involve several billion dollars in private investments and are expected to generate “tens of thousands” of additional jobs. These projects are considered strategic for port modernisation, strengthening industrial supply chains, and maintaining US technological competitiveness.

In their statement, the governors warned that questioning existing permits would send “a worrying message” to investors and could lead to higher interest rates required to finance other infrastructure, thereby increasing the burden on taxpayers.

An uncertain climate in the sector

The intervention comes as Donald Trump publicly reiterated his intention to refocus energy policy on fossil fuels and traditional marine industries. During a recent speech, he reaffirmed his push to expand oil and gas drilling, declaring: “drill, baby, drill”.

In response, the governors are calling for immediate clarification of federal strategy. They warn against “sudden reversals” that could impact not only energy projects but also other ongoing public works.

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