Thousands of Kentucky workers continue looking for new opportunities in a state where the employment landscape continues to dramatically change. Coal jobs have seen a steep decline – as have manufacturing positions – many of which have been relocated overseas.
Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Alison Lundergan Grimes says congress can take action to make Kentucky and every other state more attractive to U.S. companies.
“We can fund investments in American businesses that create jobs for Kentucky workers,” said Grimes in a phone interview with WKU Public Radio Wednesday. “I think we can expand tax credits for businesses relocating to the United States and end the tax breaks for businesses that ship jobs outside of the Commonwealth. Rebuilding Kentucky’s manufacturing sector is a priority for me,” said Grimes.
As for increased EPA regulations which have been partially blamed for the loss of coal jobs, Grimes says, if elected, she will work closely with lawmakers from both parties to make sure national energy policy has a “meaningful, long-term place” for coal.
Grimes is trying to defeat five-term incumbent Republican Mitch McConnell in the November 4th election.
The interview also touched on world events, including the targeted air strike campaign against ISIS militants in Iraq and Syria. Grimes says, as the world’s lone super power, the United States has “no choice” but to be fully engaged in global affairs.
“I have supported the air strikes in Syria and Iraq but remain opposed to the use of ground forces. My hope is that the allied coalition continues to grow so that there can be a joint responsibility, especially an economic shared responsibility, for the mission in the Middle East right now,” said Grimes.
Grimes says any American military intervention should be used as a “last resort” and should only happened when national security or key U.S. interests are threatened.
The Democrat, speaking before the resignation of Secret Service Director Julia Pierson, said she favors a full investigation and audit of recent security breaches at the White House and around President Obama.
