Position on Expected Issues

     I want to share my position on three issues that are expected to come up in the next term. I’ll be happy to answer any questions about my position on other issues, I’m discussing these three because they are almost certain to be addressed at some point in the next four years. On any issue, though, scripture and prayer are where I turn to for answers because the answers are always found there.

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     The first issue is ethics reform. Unfortunately there have been efforts to weaken our ethics laws for several years. Those arguing for change often claim the current law is ambiguous. I’ve worked under it since 2011 and it seems clear enough to me, just do right. I believe that public officials should champion strong ethics laws, not try to weaken them and I will oppose any effort to weaken our ethics laws.

     

     The second issue is gambling. Legislation seeking to legalize gambling was introduced twice in this term. The first time it failed by a single vote. Gambling does not bring the types of jobs I believe we need to create for our children and grandchildren. There is a reason that large, out of state gambling interests are pouring millions of dollars into Alabama political campaigns this year. Call me cynical, but I do not believe the reason is that they love our state or care about our citizens. I do love Alabama and I will oppose any effort to legalize gambling.

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     The third issue is marijuana. I will oppose any effort to expand the legal availability of marijuana. Alabama authorized the use of marijuana for certain medical purposes. In other states, the legalization of medical marijuana has been followed by a push for the legalization of recreational marijuana. As County Administrator, I’ve worked up the hill from the Coffee County Jail for nearly fifteen years. The vast majority of inmates are there for a crime either directly or indirectly related to drugs and marijuana is the first drug that almost every one of them tried. I’ve also seen the devastation drug addiction has wrought on family members. I will oppose any effort to expand the legal availability of marijuana.

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     Regarding the financial arguments that some make for legalizing marijuana or gambling, that same argument could be applied to any illicit activity. If we start down that road, where do we stop?

     

     Please share this with anyone you believe needs to see it. Thank you.