MANCHESTER — U.S. Congressman Andy Barr made a campaign stop in Clay County Monday morning, drawing a large crowd to the Heritage Inn as part of his bid for the U.S. Senate.
Barr was joined by several elected officials from Clay and Leslie counties, along with community leaders and supporters who gathered to hear his message on energy, economic development and the future of eastern Kentucky.
Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers introduced Barr, praising his experience and commitment to the region.
“Andy Barr understands what eastern Kentucky needs,” Stivers said. “He’s been a strong voice for our communities, and he knows the importance of bringing opportunity back to areas that have been hit hard over the years.”
During his remarks, Barr focused heavily on energy policy, particularly the future of coal.
“One of my goals is to help open the coal mining industry back up,” Barr told the crowd. “For too long, policies coming out of Washington have worked against our natural resources and against the people who depend on them.”
Barr pointed to past administrations as contributing to the decline of coal in the region.
“Presidents Obama and Biden took a valuable resource away from our country and crippled places like eastern Kentucky,” he said. “We’ve seen firsthand what that’s done to jobs, families and communities.”
While acknowledging the challenges ahead, Barr said he believes coal will continue to play a key role in the nation’s energy future.
“It’s not going to be easy, but coal-burning energy is something this country is going to have to utilize,” Barr said. “As we continue to grow and develop new technologies, the demand for reliable, affordable energy is only going to increase.”
Barr also asked Clay County residents for their support in the upcoming May primary election as he continues his campaign across the state.
Barr said revitalizing the coal industry would not only strengthen the nation’s energy independence but also provide economic opportunities for communities across eastern Kentucky.
The visit marked one of several stops Barr is making across Kentucky as he seeks the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate.
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