HARLAN COUNTY, Ky. (LEX 18) - — Out of work Harlan County miners were surprised with a visit from Gov. Matt Bevin, who swung by the train tracks in Cumberland where they have been camped out for over a week.
Bevin, fresh off a visit to Fancy Farm, showed up to the train tracks in Cumberland late Saturday. About 150 people were there when the governor showed up. He was given a "No Pay, No Coal" T-shirt, which he wore as he walked around and talked to miners.
Since last Monday, the miners have camped out on the train tracks, hoping to make noise and get their final paychecks from Blackjewel mining cashed.
Travis Ellis, a miner, spoke with LEX 18 about meeting the governor.
"He prayed there and then told everybody he stood up for them and was doing what was right. We worked, and can't work a man and not pay him," said Ellis.
Meanwhile, at Fancy Farm, Attorney General Andy Beshear criticized the governor's labor cabinet secretary.
"We have learned that Matt Bevin's labor cabinet secretary failed to secure a bond that would have paid them for those weeks that they have not been paid. There is no excuse for that," said Beshear.
Travis Ellis also said that Sunday church services were held yesterday on the tracks and they're grateful for the continued support.
