WASHINGTON — U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly, R-3rd, of Butler Saturday morning is giving the weekly national Republican address.

He was picked to speak by Speaker of the House Rep. John Boehner, R-Ohio.

Kelly is talking about America’s energy policies and the need to promote more use of coal and other natural resources to produce more energy.

He said, “Today I’m offering President Obama a lump of coal for Christmas.

“I’m offering the president a lump of coal because this product right here holds the potential for a 21st-century economic revival.

“You see, coal is our most abundant and valuable resource. It lights our homes, keeps our electric bills low, and puts food on the table for countless families. More than 40,000 jobs in my state alone are tied to coal.

“And with all that God has given us, we shouldn’t be just trying to keep up with the pack. My goodness, we should be leading the world.”

Kelly said in his speech, “Federal regulations have already forced two coal-fired power plants in my district to close over the past two years. Hundreds more are set to shut down around the country.

“Instead of forcing our workers to live with less, the president should let us use our God-given resources and talents to help Americans get back to work and make our nation the energy superpower it can be — and quite frankly, that it needs to be.

“So whether it’s stopping these regulations, expediting infrastructure, or expanding production, there’s so much we can do to encourage the development of all forms of American energy.”