KPAX: Daines, MT business groups back Trump decision on Keystone XL pipeline

WASHINGTON, DC – Sen. Steve Daines is praising President Donald J. Trump’s executive action to move forward with the Keystone XL pipeline.

“The Keystone XL pipeline will create good-paying Montana union and tribal jobs,” Daines stated. “After years of talk and political nonsense, I couldn’t be more thrilled that President Trump has heeded my call to move forward construction of this project.”

Daines sent a letter to Trump on Dec. 6, 2016 urging him to take immediate action in starting the process to build the Keystone XL pipeline.

In a statement Tuesday, Democrat U.S. Senator Jon Tester said, “I look forward to seeing a Keystone Pipeline that respects private property rights, meets the highest safety standards and uses American materials and labor.  Building the Keystone Pipeline will create good-paying jobs. It’s one piece of a responsible energy future in Montana–one that also harnesses renewable energy jobs, saves money and addresses the growing threats of our changing climate.”

Several Montana groups are also applauding Trump’s move to move ahead with the pipeline which would cross a section of Montana.

“The Keystone project will put hundreds of high paid construction workers to work and will be a huge boost to our economy. We applaud President Trump for his courage in doing the right thing,” said Montana Contractors Association executive director Cary Hegreberg.

“The Montana Chamber of Commerce is delighted to hear Keystone XL can move forward. This project will benefit Montana in so many ways: business activity, tax revenue, and jobs.  We thank Trans-Canada for their faith in Montana, President Trump for this action, and our delegation for their support.  Let’s get to work!” Montana Chamber of Commerce President, CEO Webb Brown.

The Keystone XL pipeline would enter the United States through Phillips County, traveling about 284 miles across eastern Montana to South Dakota.