Governor Kim Reynolds and Mesabi Metallics Chairman Rewant Ruia joined President Donald Trump at the White House today for the announcement of a multi-billion-dollar economic development project that will make Iowa the home of the largest steel manufacturing investment in American history.
Mesabi Metallics plans to build a new fully integrated steel complex in the state, a project the governor described as transformational for the country, the state and American families.
"I want to thank President Trump for his commitment to bringing steel manufacturing back to America, and Mesabi Metallics for choosing Iowa as its partner and future home," Reynolds said. "This is a transformational opportunity for our country, our state, and American families—one that strengthens national security, creates thousands of high-paying jobs, and provides a reliable supply of high-quality, American-made steel for strategic goods and everyday products."
Reynolds tied the project to Iowa's business climate, citing the state's commitment to fiscal responsibility, tax competitiveness and long-term economic stability. "Now, this opportunity will fundamentally change the economic trajectory of our state and the entire region for decades to come," she said.
Speaker of the House Pat Grassley said the project "would be a gamechanger for southeast Iowa and leave a lasting impact on our state's manufacturing footprint," adding it would bring "real jobs that mean stable careers for working families."
Iowa Senate Majority Leader Mike Klimesh said the investment would draw billions of dollars into the state and bring quality jobs to a part of Iowa looking for growth. "As we look to remain competitive on the national level, the largest private investment in Iowa history makes it clear our state is open for business," Klimesh said.