Gov. Gianforte Praises President Trump and Sec. Burgum for Rosebud Mine Expansion

Montana's Governor Greg Gianforte praised President Donald J. Trump and Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum for their decision to approve the mining plan modification for the Rosebud Mine in Montana. This move extends the mine's operation through 2039 and secures approximately 300 high-paying jobs. The decision marks the second-largest federal coal mine expansion approved since the beginning of the second Trump administration.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Rosebud Mine expansion extends the mine's operation through 2039, enabling the recovery of approximately 33.75 million tons of coal from federal lands.
  • The decision protects over 300 high-paying jobs and secures more affordable and reliable energy for American families and businesses.
  • The Rosebud Mine powers the Colstrip and Rosebud power plants, which together can generate more than 1,500 megawatts of electricity, enough to power over a million homes.
  • Governor Gianforte and Senator Steve Daines held a roundtable at the Rosebud Mine last year to call on former President Joe Biden to end his war on American-made energy.
  • The federal government's approval ensures compliance with the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement guidelines.
  • The Rosebud Mine expansion marks a significant step in the Trump administration's efforts to "unleash the power of American-made energy right here in Montana."

Statistics:

  • Approximately 33.75 million tons of coal will be recovered from federal lands as a result of the Rosebud Mine expansion.
  • The mine's operation will extend through 2039.
  • Over 300 high-paying jobs will be protected as a result of the decision.
  • The Rosebud Mine powers the Colstrip and Rosebud power plants, which together can generate more than 1,500 megawatts of electricity.
  • The Energy Information Administration (EIA-2023) reports that coal-generated power accounts for approximately 27.3% of the United States' electricity generation.

Sources:

  • News release from the Office of Governor Greg Gianforte, issued August 5, 2025.
  • Department of the Interior (DOI) approval of the mining plan modification for the Rosebud Mine.
  • Department of the Interior Acting Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management Adam Suess's statement on the decision.
  • A roundtable discussion at the Rosebud Mine featuring Governor Gianforte and Senator Steve Daines (2024).
  • Environmental Protection Agency rulemaking under the Biden administration.
  • Energy Information Administration (EIA-2023).