WILLIAMSON, W.Va. — Convicted former coal operator Don Blankenship shot back at Democratic presidential frontrunner Hillary Clinton Tuesday evening after Clinton criticized him for showing up in Williamson a day earlier outside the venue where she met with local residents.
“It is disappointing she is choosing to promote her political campaign by demonizing me,” Blankenship said in a prepared statement.
MORE Read Blankenship response to Hillary Clinton here
He didn’t apologize for being in the crowd Monday evening where most in attendance were vocally criticizing an earlier statement Clinton made about coal.
“She should understand as a lifetime member of coal country and a proud West Virginian, I am interested in any suggestions she has to address the problems coal miners and coal communities face today,” Blankenship said.
Blankenship, who is scheduled to self-report to federal prison next week, was standing with a couple of men watching the proceedings while holding an umbrella. His appearance generated a response Tuesday from Hillary for West Virginia State Director Talley Sergent.
“It was a pretty outrageous sight to see Don Blankenship, of all people, apparently rallying against Hillary Clinton’s plans and commitment to help our coal communities. As President, Hillary Clinton will prioritize federal legislation to make sure the likes of Don Blankenship can never again get away with showing such blatant disregard for our miners and their safety,” Sergent said. “Our campaign is proud not to have Don Blankenship’s endorsement. If Donald Trump wants to accept his support, then he owes a serious explanation to the families of our miners we lost at Upper Big Branch and the people of West Virginia.”
Hillary Clinton tweeted, “Let’s act on coal miner safety so people like Don Blankenship are held accountable for blatantly disregarding it.”
Blankenship supported Clinton take a look at his mine law safety enhancements at his website donblankenship.com.
“My suggestions will save coal miners’ lives,” Blankenship said.
Blankenship was convicted last year on one count of conspiring to break federal mine safety laws in connection with the operation of the Upper Big Branch mine in Raleigh County where an April 2010 explosion killed 29 miners. He was sentenced last month to a one-year prison term.
Blankenship’s attorneys have asked the U.S. 4th District Circuit Court of Appeals to allow him to remain out on bond while his appeal continues. The Court hasn’t yet ruled on the motion.