Dante, Virginia - A $400,000 federal grant earmarked to rebuild Dante’s fire station - demolished due to mine subsidence – has been rescinded by the Trump administration, leaving the Russell County town vulnerable and highlighting a pattern of funding cuts impacting Appalachian communities despite strong local support for the former president. The decision comes as the region faces increasing challenges from flooding and economic hardship, and as promised revitalization projects hang in the balance.
The rescinded funding, originally appropriated by Congress, was intended to replace the fire station lost to ground instability caused by coal mining. This setback, coupled with broader cuts to Medicaid, veterans affairs, food aid, and education across Appalachia, is fueling concerns that the region is being left behind despite Trump’s promises to protect mining jobs.Lou Ann Wallace, Dante’s representative on the Russell County Board of Supervisors, expressed frustration, stating, “These are not frivolous things: these are basic services. And when you work hard for two or three years to secure federal funds, you expect it to be delivered.”
The situation in Dante exemplifies a broader trend. Despite Trump winning 83% of the vote in Russell County in 2024 and Republican Winsome Earle-Sears securing 81% in the recent gubernatorial election, the administration’s policies are undermining crucial support systems in the area. The cuts are occurring simultaneously as communities attempt to bolster resilience and attract new economic opportunities.
White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers defended the administration’s actions, asserting that President Trump ”cares about our miners more than any other president in modern history” and has prioritized energy dominance and job protection by rolling back regulations.
However,advocates warn that the cuts will disproportionately harm those who supported Trump. Hannah, a local advocate working to secure funding for Appalachian projects, described the situation as “a race against the clock” to maintain morale and keep essential services afloat. “The funding was committed by Congress, so we know the law’s on our side, and that we will eventually win back some of these grants,” Hannah said.”One objective was probably to remove confidence in the system, so we need to outlast what is a game of cashflow and the battle of morale.”
Recent flooding in Dante underscores the urgency of the situation,as the town now operates without a fully equipped fire department.A mural in Dante recognizes the town’s history with coal, a visual reminder of the industry’s complex legacy in the region.
