This week, U.S. Steel announced a $3 billion expansion in the First District which will create approximately 900 direct and indirect jobs. Mississippi County and Northeast Arkansas will become the largest steel producing region in America, leading the way for future growth and development across multiple sectors of the American economy. Mississippi County has undeniably become the central hub for the U.S. steel industry – in the First District alone it generates over $5 billion, six thousand jobs, and over $700 million in wages to employees.
Many people must work together to create the perfect environment for these types of investments. On the federal level, I’ve advocated for a more aggressive approach on steel dumping, and these polices have led to a healthier and growing U.S. steel industry. Locally, Mississippi County Economic Developer Cliff Chitwood, Mississippi County Judge John Nelson, and Senator David Wallace were critical in pulling together what was needed so Mike Preston at the Arkansas Economic Development Commission had the best package to offer. Most recently, we were able to secure funding for a wastewater project in Mississippi County which helps filtrate wastewater from these steel mills. I am thankful to all those who worked on this project and who are dedicated to making the First District and our communities a better, more prosperous place.
This is the biggest investment by a single company in Arkansas history and an incredible testament to the workforce and economy we’ve developed together. This expansion will help, not just Mississippi County, but the entire region flourish. I am proud to have supported our local leaders, steel company representatives, and the steel industry as a whole while serving in Congress and will continue to advocate for American steel and steelworkers.
