GRANITE CITY, Ill. – Granite City Works, a steel mill in southern Illinois, has been a vital part of the local community for years, producing steel used in cars, construction, and pipelines.
Just a few weeks ago, U.S. Steel announced plans to stop sending steel slabs to the mill, which would have led to a shutdown while keeping nearly 800 workers on payroll until 2027. But now, U.S. Steel has reversed that decision and will keep operations running at the Granite City mill indefinitely.
On Friday, U.S. Steel confirmed that it would continue processing steel slabs at Granite City Works. This change came after the Trump administration used a special veto power to influence the company’s production decisions.
At a rally across the river in Granite City, union workers gathered to celebrate the news. One speaker emphasized the need for long-term job security and a commitment to keeping American-made steel production in Granite City.
“We want job security with long-term commitments. Let’s get back to making steel right here in Granite City, Illinois,” he said, as the crowd cheered in agreement.
Mike Millsap, District 7 Director for the United Steelworkers (USW) union, credited the collective efforts of workers, local leaders, and Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski for making the reversal possible. He said the union reached out quickly for help, and Budzinski responded by taking immediate action to support the mill.
“The union reached out for help, and Congresswoman Budzinski immediately went to work for us,” Millsap said.
The United Steelworkers had been vocal in opposing U.S. Steel’s original plan, accusing the company of trying to back out of commitments made when it was acquired by Nippon Steel. The rally and pressure from the union and the community helped push the company to change course.
Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski spoke at the rally, highlighting the importance of the mill and the hard work of the generations who have contributed to its success. She reminded the crowd that the mill not only produces steel but also provides local families with the opportunity for a better life.
“Generations of men and women have built steel that built America, from bridges to skyscrapers,” Budzinski said. “This mill didn’t just produce steel; it gave people a chance at a better life.”
Despite the good news, there are still questions about the long-term future of the mill. Granite City hasn’t produced raw steel since its blast furnace was shut down in 2023. Local leaders are now calling on President Trump to follow through on promises to support the steel industry.
Granite City Mayor Mike Parkinson spoke to the crowd, urging the President to visit the town and meet with the workers who depend on the mill.
“We’ve done great things together today, but we need your help to do more,” Parkinson said. “Come here, meet with us, and support the workers who are keeping American steel alive.”
For now, Granite City Works is still in operation, bringing a welcome relief to the nearly 800 families who rely on the mill for their livelihoods. While this decision provides hope for the future, the road ahead is still uncertain. Workers and local leaders hope that continued support from both state and national leaders will help ensure the mill remains open for years to come.
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