Congressman Enyart in Du Quoin after SIU coal tour

Congressman Bill Enyart met with Knight Hawk Coal Co. CEO and Mike Mitchell at the SIU Coal Research Center at Carterville Monday and said that because coal provides 40 percent of our power it is a critical part of our energy security.

"In South Africa coal is used to make 90 percent of their gasoline and diesel. We know we have the technology. We just have to get the cost down."

Enyart and chief of staff Kevin Kern stopped in Du Quoin on their way back to Belleville.

Six months into his role as congressman, Enyart said he is enjoying "90 percent of my work," frustrated that a body of over 400 lawmakers can't agree on the simplest concepts like the Farm Bill.

He said the Farm Bill should be an easy concept affecting all of rural America.

He said he's thankful for some small victories, like sponsorship of legislation that will back the military away from wasteful spending on no fewer than 10 kinds of camouflage uniforms.

He said when he returns to Washington he will be working with colleagues on our nation's defense budget.

Kern began his work in Enyart's office as projects director, but finds himself more in the role of chief of staff.

He said he's on a rigorous schedule all of the time and largely enjoys the work.

Down the hall from him is another Du Quoin native, Jennifer Daulby, who works in another congressman's office.

They talk about their work and talk about Du Quoin.