Tennessee has had a good governor in Democrat Phil Bredesen for the past eight years. But he is constitutionally limited to the two consecutive four-year terms which he is completing. So we have a completely new field of gubernatorial candidates from whom to choose this coming Tuesday.
There are 16 names on the ballot for governor, an unusually large number.
First on the ballot is the candidate we believe is also first in qualifications, experience, philosophy and ability to serve us well as our next governor.
He is Republican nominee Bill Haslam.
Haslam has been a successful mayor of Knoxville.
Before being elected mayor, Haslam was the very successful leader of the multistate gasoline and convenience store chain Pilot Oil Co.
Haslam is a man of excellent character and ability, and sound conservatism.
He plans to examine state government to find and eliminate any wasteful spending. He seeks efficiency and economical operations.
Haslam wants to generate additional job opportunities for Tennesseans as well. He believes in continuing strong and successful efforts to attract new businesses and industries.
He places Tennessee educational advancement, from kindergarten through our colleges and universities, as a very high priority to advance our residents’ opportunities and accomplishments.
Haslam strongly opposes any imposition of a general state income tax.
We believe Haslam’s business experience, his sound view on growing our economy, and his opposition to additional taxing qualify him for overwhelming election as our next governor of Tennessee.
We strongly recommend the election of Bill Haslam for governor on Tuesday.