Ben Cardin actually said...

"This is the first hearing that we have had in the Senate in 7 years on mountaintop recoveries."

"Coal is important to America. It is an important mineral that we have."

"The Federal Government can play a critical role in bringing about that change, and this is one more chapter in achieving that goal."

"The message when we pass this--and I certainly hope that we will pass this--is that America has made a priority protecting people from violence because of diversity."