Q: Would you support a tax increase for education? Are there any other needs that merit a tax increase?
A: No, I do not believe that a tax hike to accomplish our educational objectives is necessary right now. First, we must identify what our real education "in-school" priorities are: smaller class size, preschool programs, full service schools, salaries, safe schools and teacher support that ranks at least at or above the national average -- all decided based on local input.
Q: What action must be taken to tackle crime in Florida? How will it be paid for?
A: Despite the campaign rhetoric, the Legislature has a duty to punish violators through swift and sure punishment that includes maximum terms served. The truth is, we cannot build prisons fast enough and we must (through good education and meaningful alternative programs) channel children into more productive activities. Prisoners should work and pay their own way as well as pay back the victims of their crimes. The message must be clear -- the party is over.
Q: Do you think laws and regulations designed to protect the environment go too far by restricting business activities and individual property rights?
A: No. The laws seek to preserve the Florida we love and want for our children. However, the Tallahassee regulations (more accurately, the regulators) often make a reasonable system unreasonable or impossible to navigate, even when the outcome is agreed to by all. Property should not be taken without just compensation. A healthy environment means a high standard of living . . . (that) will indisputably attract industry.
Q: What is your stance on abortion? Do you support the proposal of some state law enforcement leaders to create a 30-foot buffer zone around Florida abortion clinics?
A: I am pro-choice. I do not advocate abortion as a means of birth control. Although we must recognize and guarantee the free speech right to demonstrate to those who oppose choice, buffer zones may be appropriate if there is unreasonable interference, threats and harassment.
Q: Do you support school choice? Why or why not?
A: I support the concept of school choice within a public school system, but I am concerned about how we make school choice work so that it is a choice for all families, not just the middle income and wealthy families. It is critical that we strive for excellence and increase the educational standards in all our schools.
Q: What is the single most important action the Legislature can take? How will you be able to accomplish that?
A: The single most important action the Legislature can take is to act -- not talk -- act in such a way to restore public confidence in the institution of government as being truthful, efficient and dedicated to making a difference. In large part, this will be accomplished by not interfering with the community leaders who are doing the work at street level.
Q: Are you satisfied with the current structure of water-management districts -- appointed board members and oversight by the state Department of Environmental Protection? Do you favor interdistrict transfers of water from North Florida to Central and South Florida?
A: We must develop a comprehensive state water policy that guarantees that North Florida is not drained dry of clean drinking water to flush toilets in Miami. Water management districts should be critically reviewed and held more accountable for their spending. We have only to look at California with its vast arteries of aqueducts traversing the length of the state to see our future if our water policy is not planned out well in advance.
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