Oklahoma Aluminum Smelter Feels Impact of Iranian Conflict

Rep. Brad Boles discusses data center bill as Power Alliance's Jeff Clark calls for all-of-the-above energy strategy

Apr. 5, 2026 at 1:11am

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The ongoing conflict in Iran is having a direct impact on an aluminum smelter in Inola, Oklahoma, according to a new episode of the 'okenergytoday.com' podcast. The episode also features interviews with state Representative Brad Boles about his data center legislation and Power Alliance's Jeff Clark, who emphasizes the critical need for all forms of American energy production despite political interference.

Why it matters

The Inola aluminum smelter is a major employer in the region, so disruptions to its operations due to the Iranian conflict could have significant economic ripple effects. Meanwhile, the data center bill and Clark's comments on the importance of an all-of-the-above energy strategy speak to broader policy debates around energy, the economy, and national security.

The details

The podcast episode delves into how the Iranian conflict is affecting the Inola aluminum smelter, a key industrial facility in Oklahoma. It also features interviews with state Representative Brad Boles, who discusses the progress of his legislation aimed at attracting data centers to the state, as well as Jeff Clark of the Power Alliance, who emphasizes the critical need for all forms of American energy production to meet demand and bolster national security, despite political obstacles.

  • The podcast episode was published on April 5, 2026.

The players

Brad Boles

An Oklahoma state representative who is championing legislation to attract data centers to the state.

Jeff Clark

The president of the Power Alliance, an organization that advocates for the development of all forms of American energy production.

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What they’re saying

“We must pursue an all-of-the-above energy strategy to meet our growing demand and strengthen our national security, despite the political interference that often gets in the way.”

— Jeff Clark, President, Power Alliance

What’s next

The Oklahoma state legislature will continue to debate Representative Boles' data center bill in the coming months.

The takeaway

The Iranian conflict is having real-world economic consequences in Oklahoma, underscoring the need for a comprehensive, all-encompassing energy policy that can withstand geopolitical shocks and support critical industries like aluminum production.