The next governor of Alabama will have some tough decisions to make. From the out-of-control healthcare costs to government spending and unemployment, we need a governor who will make the tough decisions that have to be made. It was a good experience to be able to attend the Alabama Gubernatorial Forum that was held in Opelika last night. After listening to the four candidates present, I believe all of them are qualified for the position, that is . . . to a degree.
All the candidates were invited to come learn about the Harvest Evangelism ministry that serves men and women in need from all walks of life. A terrific ministry started by Rick Hagans, provides many men and women with hope of overcoming addictions. Out of all the candidates, Kay Ivy was not above visiting with the men of His Place at lunch that day. Kay Ivy is a loveable grandma with what I believe is the most experience with fiscal responsibility. As far as presence, she certainly appeals to true southern conservatives with her down-home, southern draw and quick whips.
Dr. Robert Bentley seems not just have ideas, but is versed enough to articulate well thought-out solutions. He may be educated, but the doubt lies in whether his experience could transfer into ability. Running a private business, and serving in the state house, in my opinion, are not stepping stones to the governorship. It didn't seem as though Ivy or Bentley have a strong enough presence or rhetorical capability to be able to rally voters and compete against a figure like Artur Davis in an election.
Tim James is likeable, has presence, but didn't appear to be as confident on stage as others. At times I felt his body language communicated frustration and a lack of confidence in what he was saying. As with Bentley, I am uncertain if Tim James's experience as a businessman could automatically transfer him into having the ability to be governor.
Byrne seemed to have stronger emotional appeal, but that could have been because the audience was stacked with his supporters. As for experience, he has worked as the Chancellor of the two-year college system, and has served in the state senate. Both James and Byrne are typical politicians, and seemed to be saying a lot of the same things. Both James and Byrne have a strong enough presence or rhetorical capability to be able to rally voters and compete against a figure like Artur Davis in an election. When it comes down to James and Byrne, it looks like support, money, and experience are the three key elements of difference. There is something to be said about appearance, and when you have money you can pay to look good. Upon arriving I believe I had at least 6 different people hand me Byrne material. With signs, brochures, bumper stickers I was bombarded with more Byrne material than material from any other candidate.
This is just a quick summation of my opinion as it pertains to the candidates for the Republican nomination. Being that they are all Republicans, they are automatically pro conservative values. So I wasn't paying attention to those answers from the candidates. What I was interested in from the candidates are ideas and solutions, how their experience can be applied, and their viability as a candidate against Democratic opposition.
Well, those are just my thoughts to consider, take it or leave it
T.J. Martin
Opelika, AL
timothyemartinjr@gmail.com
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