Alison Grimes on Energy & Oil

Balanced approach to deal with global warming

She then called for a "balanced" approach to dealing with climate change while preserving Kentucky's coal jobs.

The McConnell campaign responded to the interview in a statement, saying that the "Whether it was entertaining the legalization of recreational drug use, endorsing climate change or supporting gun control efforts at gun shows, she sounded exactly like the kind of partisan Obama loyalist that has been attacking Kentucky in Washington for the last six years," said a McConnell campaign spokeswoman.

During the interview, Grimes said she disagrees with Obama on "many issues." "Unfortunately, Mitch McConnell is the only one that doesn't realize that," Grimes said.

Rely heavily on domestic coal, oil and natural gas

I strongly oppose President Obama's attack on Kentucky's energy industry. This Administration has taken direct aim at Kentucky's coal industry, crippling our state's largest source of domestic energy and threatening thousands of jobs.

We must secure America's energy independence and reduce our dependence on Middle Eastern oil. Our nation's energy approach should rely heavily on coal, oil and natural gas, along with alternative sources of energy. Kentucky will lead this effort through continued coal production and exploration and development of natural gas.