LANSING, Mich. (Feb. 20, 2026) — Earlier this week, the Trump administration issued a fourth emergency order to keep the J.H. Campbell coal-fired power plant in West Michigan operational. Originally set to retire in May 2025, the plant has not only been one of the state’s largest polluters but also one of the most expensive in the region to operate. Consumers Energy recently reported a net loss of $135 million through December 31, 2025 — more than $600,000 a day, forcing Michigan ratepayers to cover the bill.
In response to the Feb. 17 order, Sen. Sam Singh (D-East Lansing) has issued the following statement:
“The mandated extension of operating this coal plant defies reason and illustrates once again the Trump administration’s disregard for American families. Requiring ratepayers to foot the bill at a time when the cost of living continues to rise is irresponsible and unnecessarily cruel. This administration has continuously chosen petty politics over responsible governing. We should be focusing on things that help reduce the cost burden on Michigan families, which include continuing investments that have already been made in renewable energy sources that are actually proven to lower energy costs.”