Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell made the following remarks on the Senate floor Monday regarding the flooding in Kentucky and the efforts to free three trapped coal miners near Middlesboro, Kentucky:

“I’d just like to say a few words to acknowledge the three coal miners who are trapped in a coal mine near Middlesboro, Kentucky, this morning as a result of some terrible storms and flooding in the Southeastern part of the state. 

“A number of different communities have been affected by the flooding, and a lot of people are working hard to help folks recover from power outages and mudslides.

“From what I understand, rescue efforts for the three miners are now underway, and the people on the ground are hopeful that they’ll be able to rescue all three men. But we want them and their families to know that we’re all thinking of them as the rescue efforts continue.

“This is a vitally important industry in the region, and in moments like this it’s appropriate that we acknowledge the danger that people who work in the coal mines subject themselves to every day.

“They’re a courageous and dedicated group — and we’re very grateful for their work.”