Plan to keep steel plant in JD Vance's hometown sparks local anger

A costly plan will keep a fossil fuel burning steel plant open in Middletown, Ohio, the hometown of Senator JD Vance. The proposal relies on substantial public subsidies to extend operations, and it has drawn fierce local anger. Residents and health advocates say continued emissions will worsen asthma and other health problems in an overburdened community. The decision matters because it commits taxpayer money to prolong pollution and heightens political scrutiny of Vance and regional leaders.