RINGGOLD, Ga. — The first question in a debate among six men campaigning for Georgia’s 9th Congressional District seat ignited an informal contest to be the most conservative candidate.
After opening statements, moderator Joe Legge asked each man what he would do in Congress to bring a high-speed train connecting Nashville, Chattanooga and Atlanta. Instantly, a virtual elbowing contest ensued to see which candidate could convey the most enthusiasm about cutting federal projects.
Dr. Chris Cates, a Republican cardiologist from Blairsville, cautioned against looking at issues such as the proposed train before figuring out “how to get the government off our backs as business owners” and repealing health care reform efforts “that will absolutely sink this country.”
Eugene Moon, a political independent from Gainesville, warned against government expansion, and said North Georgia’s problems wouldn’t be solved by a high-speed train.
“We’re going to redo the tax system to increase more disposable income to families,” he said. “I feel this taxpayer-funded railroad will be a failure, and I don’t see the economic benefit to the area.”
Only former state Rep. Bill Stephens, R-Cumming, entertained the possibility of mass transportation linking the three cities, saying he may try for a seat on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee if elected.
“We studied this in-depth, and a corridor between Atlanta and Chattanooga obviously to this area is crucial,” said Mr. Stephens, who was chairman of the Georgia Senate Transportation Committee.
The conservative tone extended toward social issues, as each candidate applauded Arizona’s recent efforts to curtail illegal immigration. Several promised to help “close the southern border” if elected, and many went further in a blanket condemnation of any policy approaching amnesty.
“We need to put our National Guard on the border if it’s required,” said former state Rep. Tom Graves, R-Ranger. “The border fences we have in Arizona, I have better cattle fences at my home in Ranger.”
One candidate went further, condemning President Barack Obama for what he sees as negligence on the immigration issue.
“Illegal immigrants are invaders into what’s my home,” said Bert Loftman, a retired physician from Jasper. “The president is not enforcing the laws. To me, it ought to be an impeachment idea.”
Another candidate petitioned for a shift in American culture.
“We have got to quit being politically correct in everything we do,” said Steve Tarvin, a Chickamauga native and president of Crystal Springs Print Works, Inc., who advocated “putting America first” and “getting beyond” the negative connotation surrounding racial profiling.
The Colonnade Civic Center was about a quarter full Thursday night as candidates expressed their views on a wide spectrum of questions provided by the public.
Former Congressman Nathan Deal, R-Gainesville, resigned March 21 to run for governor, leaving a vacancy in the district. A special election will be held May 11 to determine who will hold the 9th District seat before primary season begins in preparation for the general election in November.
Also running but not participating in the event are retired pastor Mike Freeman, a Democrat, and Republican state senator Lee Hawkins.