Robert Byrd

I have proposed a variety of improvements to Senate Rules to achieve a more sensible balance allowing the majority to function while still protecting minority rights.

Never, ever, ever get rid of the filibuster. It is the guardian of minority rights and an essential engine for consensus.

The path of wilderness legislation can be as rugged as the land itself.

The Company, and not its regulators, bear primary responsibility for ensuring a safe and lawful working environment.

Mr. Blankenship, why, why, why so many fatalities at Massey mines?

Now, what happened to the Massey officials who allowed these dangerous and illegal practices to exist?

Miners have rights under the law to walk away from an unsafe work environment.

This is a clear record. A blatant disregard for the welfare and the safety of Massey miners. Shame.

This isn't the average. This is deplorable, is what it is. It's not average, and it's not acceptable.

If I die, I want you to know I love you.

Massey mines were cited for 31,000 violations. This means that, on the average during that 10 year period, a miner was seriously injured every other day.

Twenty-nine men are now dead dead dead simply because they went to work that morning.