"Today, more than ever, America needs jobs, affordable energy and energy independence. I am confident that coal can help us meet these needs, and I believe that we should have a meaningful dialogue about the role coal must play in our energy and economic policies.

"The protests and pointless arrests by Dr. Hansen, a Hollywood actress and their friends do nothing to move such a conversation forward.

"It is my desire that a meaningful discussion of the issues will end these pointless protests that waste the taxpayers' money and put our miners and law enforcement personnel at risk.

"In an effort to have real discussion about the real issues that affect real working families I have accepted an offer by West Virginia Media television stations on Thursday, June 25 at 7:00 PM to debate Dr. Hansen. I hope we have this opportunity to debate these important issues."

Massey Energy

CONTACT: Matt J. Lauer of Qorvis Communications, +1-703-463-1841, ormlauer@qorvis.com, for Massey Energy

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