Gary, IN – Mayor Melton has expressed strong support for the ongoing review of the Nippon Steel deal, calling it a transformative opportunity for American steelworkers. In a statement released on April 7, 2025, the mayor emphasized the numerous benefits the deal brings to workers, particularly in cities like Gary, where the steel industry plays a pivotal role in the local economy.
The mayor commended President Trump’s decision to order a new review by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), highlighting that the deal represents the best available opportunity for the future of American manufacturing. According to Melton, the agreement guarantees nearly $1 billion in sustainable investments to modernize Gary Works, ensuring the facility’s long-term viability.
Key provisions of the deal include commitments to honor existing collective bargaining agreements, a $5,000 closing bonus for all union-represented employees, and job stability for workers who have long been dedicated to the steel industry. These commitments are viewed as essential to securing the future of steel production in the U.S., particularly in Gary, which has faced significant economic challenges in recent years.
Nippon Steel has also pledged to maintain U.S. production capacity and protect jobs at steel plants nationwide. These voluntary measures are expected to support the long-term health of the American steel industry, benefiting workers and their families for generations.
Mayor Melton expressed confidence that the CFIUS review will confirm the deal’s advantages, putting to rest any concerns regarding its potential impact on the community and the broader U.S. steel sector. He stressed the transformative potential of the investment, which could help revitalize local economies and strengthen American manufacturing.
As this crucial review continues, the mayor remains optimistic about the positive changes the Nippon Steel partnership will bring to the city of Gary and the American steel industry as a whole.
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