Seniors group issues statement on President’s continued war on coal, and negative impact it will have on the poor and elderly.

(Alexandria, Virginia) — The 60 Plus Association, America’s largest center-right seniors group with over 7.2 million supporters, today issued a statement harshly criticizing the Department of Energy for shutting down a clean coal project in Illinois, one that both previous officials and the coal industry hoped would lead to cleaner and more efficient energy for American consumers.

Said 60 Plus Chairman Jim Martin, “With one hand the Administration raises a stick to demand higher standards on the coal industry, then with the other they pull the plug on their ability to develop the technology to meet those goals. It’s very clear that in any form, President Obama is against energy produced from coal, period.

“Coal remains America’s best hope for reliable, affordable energy, the best resource for keeping the elderly and poor safe and warm through freezing winters, and cool during the scorching summer months. Coal lights our rooms, cooks our food and powers our homes. It is with deep regret that we see this President turn his back on technology that can provide so much to so many.

“Obama proposed a staggering $4 trillion budget, yet chokes off a promising project that offers potentially astounding benefits for every American who has ever been near a thermostat or electrical outlet. Only through a blind ideology does the President pursue this reckless war on coal that will result in hurting our nation’s seniors and most vulnerable.”

-30-