Trump Vows to Make TVA CEO’s Life ‘Miserable’
In a recent White House event centered around coal, former President Donald Trump launched a fierce critique of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and its CEO, Don Moul. During his address on February 11, Trump expressed strong disapproval of the TVA’s energy policies and executive compensation strategies.
Trump’s Outburst Against TVA and CEO Don Moul
Speaking at the pro-coal gathering, Trump accused the TVA, the largest public power provider in the U.S., of straying in a “very stupid, very bad direction.” He specifically targeted Moul for his salary, questioning a reported figure of $10 million. “Can you believe it?” he remarked, emphasizing his dissatisfaction with executive pay at the TVA.
Energy Policy Decisions
The timing of Trump’s comments coincided with a crucial decision made by the TVA Board of Directors. On the same day, the board chose to reverse plans to retire certain coal-fired units. This shift means that coal plants at Kingston and Cumberland in Tennessee will continue operations under the TVA’s management.
Trump praised this decision, aligning himself with the pro-coal stance while remaining critical of TVA leadership. He stated, “Trump is on the scene now,” indicating his intention to make Moul’s tenure challenging.
Compensation Controversy
- Don Moul became the CEO of TVA in spring 2025.
- He was reportedly set to earn over $6 million in his first year.
- The $10 million figure highlighted by Trump was the salary of former CEO Jeff Lyash, who earned more than $10 million in 2024.
The TVA spokesperson, Melissa Green, responded to the President’s claims by asserting that the TVA provides affordable and reliable energy to approximately 10 million people. She emphasized their commitment to building America’s energy future.
Tensions Between the Administration and Federal Utilities
This confrontation underscores the ongoing struggles between the Trump administration and federal utilities concerning energy policies and executive compensation practices. With Trump vowing to make the life of TVA’s CEO “miserable,” the implications for the nation’s largest public power utility remain uncertain.
