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1. What effect will President Bush's "No Child Left Behind" act have on Mississippi?
The real name of this act should be "Let's Leave More Children Behind." He claims to want "no child left behind," but President Bush is touting a school "reform" plan that would leave more children than ever in schools that don't provide the high-quality education that all children deserve. I have not talked to a single teacher that doesn't have strong reservations.
2. What reasons can you attribute the large number of students not performing proficiently on the required standardized tests in the state, and specifically in Jackson?
According to Alfie Kohn, author of The Schools Our Children Deserve: Moving Beyond Traditional Classrooms and "Tougher Standards," "Students from more affluent and well-educated family backgrounds perform better on standardized instruments. Tests may be biased against children from less advantaged backgrounds. Affluent families, schools, and districts are better able to afford test-prep materials and services, which creates inequity among groups. Since test-prep costs money, schools are eliminating programs in the arts, recess for young children, electives for high school students, and other activities to focus on the quest for higher scores. Standardized tests tend to measure the temporary acquisition of facts and skills more than genuine understanding." Given our states status at the bottom of the trickle down economy it makes sense to me. As for Jackson, poverty is pretty high here.
3. What programs do you think could be implemented to raise scores in school standardized tests?
Given Dr. Kohn's information the question should be, should we even administer these tests? However, since we do administer this form of measuring our children's educational progress, I would say that focus needs to be placed on Pre-K, Kindergarten, and first through third grades. If you don't build a strong foundation it is pointless to test beyond the third grade. I would also mandate Kindergarten enrollment. I believe expanding availability to Head Start for more children would be a good place to begin too.
4. In the "No Child Left Behind" act, if students do not perform proficiently, remedial classes are supposed to be offered. Where should the state and district obtain the funding for these classes?
"No Child Left Behind" is obviously a flawed piece of legislation to mandate requirements like remedial classes without funding. Having said that I would first pull down as many federal dollars as possible if there are any to be had. Secondly, trim down waste. Thirdly, tax corporate and gaming interests more. And finally as a last resort tax individuals on a progressive scale.
5. Do you think that it is a wise decision to hold the principals and teachers accountable for the scores of their schools? Why, or why not?
First let me say that I think teachers, have the hardest job in Mississippi. Their job has gone from teaching, to in many cases raising our children for us because we are too busy to do it ourselves, and this is all done on remedial pay. As for the answer to your question it is no, teachers and principals, the vast majority of whom work in poverty ridden districts, are facing problems that are out of their control. When test scores are used for merit pay, professionals who teach low-scoring populations are most likely to leave the profession They should not be held accountable on that level. Schools in poverty areas will be affected the most. However, if a school has poor scores over a consecutive period of time some looking into the situation might need to occur.
6. What are your feelings about expanding or allocating adequate funding for K-12 education? How, specifically, should it be paid for?
The largest portion (58.43 percent) of Mississippi's budget is dedicated to education, and I am of the opinion that it has got to stay that way until Mississippi comes out on top. As for funding, first we must begin by drawing down as many federal dollars as possible. Then trim back on waste, and if we have to raise corporate or gaming taxes that is what I would do. We must not let our children remain at the caboose of the train.
As stated above in question three, I truly believe that every child in Mississippi should start their education in Kindergarten. This should be a state requirement. Even better would be to have them enrolled in Head Start if eligible. A strong foundation is the place to begin.
7. How efficient are standardized tests in measuring a child's intellect?
Given the widespread poverty throughout the state I would say that standardized tests are a poor measure of a child's intellect. Besides, these tests totally fail to take in a child's creativity, and that is the most important thing. Furthermore, teachers are often penalized for teaching skills and concepts and are rewarded for teaching the test.
8. What should the state do specifically to help lower drop-out rates in Mississippi, and in Jackson specifically?
There should be more incentive to stay in school. First make school enjoyable so kids want to learn. This starts young, engendering a desire for knowledge. Then if the child is still inclined to drop-out you offer them an incentive to stay in school. For instance if they drop out before graduation or equivalency suspend their driver's license and restore it upon enrollment or completion of equivalency.
9. President Bush is currently asking for funds to support a pilot voucher program in Washington, D.C. Do you support any kind of voucher program for public-school students to attend private schools? Please explain.
It is my understanding that a voucher system only takes more money from the already poor schools. The answer is no, I do not support the President's voucher experiment.
10. Do you support zero-tolerance discipline policies in the schools? Why, or why not?
If we are to implement a zero-tolerance policy, then we need to give our children the tools of peaceful expression and resolution to their problems. The MS Coalition Against Domestic Violence & the MS Coalition Against Sexual Assault have developed a curriculum to help children gain these tools. The RESPECT program addresses such issues as; Personal Rights & Responsibilities, Anger Management, Violence Prevention, Gender Respect, Community Building, Self-Esteem. Programs like this one can be implemented through partnership with the above mentioned Coalitions with little or no cost to the schools.
11. What should Mississippi do to attract better teachers? How should we pay for them?
We must treat Mississippi's teachers like the professionals that they are. Foremost, that means professional pay. When a veteran teacher in Mississippi is paid less than a starting teacher in Texas, how can we ask that question? As for how should we pay for this, draw down all available federal dollars. Trim the fat. Tax corporate and gaming interests. Always as a last resort tax individuals on a progressive scale.
1. Do you think that there's a direct correlation between high school dropout rates and crime rates? Why, or why not?
Yes. According to the Justice Department, 46 percent of inmates, almost half, in 2000 did not have a high school diploma or equivalent.
2. You are a Jackson resident. What do you think of the policies or programs (five-point plan, community policing) that have been implemented by Police Chief Robert Moore to combat crime in Jackson? What more should be done?
As a thirty-three year resident of Jackson I have first hand experience with the crime problem. I also have many friends who have been crime victims. Obviously something needs to be done. The crime is unbelievable in Jackson.
Police officers deserve great respect for putting their lives on the line for us. Behind teachers I would say that they have the second hardest job in our society. Having said that, I would venture that there needs to be a complete overhaul of the Jackson Police Department. Near about as I can tell the Jackson Police Department is broken. Too many times I have heard of cases where a detective expected the victim to follow through on an investigation, where officers have not arrested criminals despite overwhelming evidence and even gone so far as to dissuade the victim from prosecuting.
As a citizen I think their plan will work if applied properly. It is very comprehensive. Two things I am glad for about the Mayor and Chief's plan are that I appreciate their nod towards "Community Involvement" and "Programs for Children." Both are very Green ideas -- grassroots democracy and future focus. I also believe that the number two goal of "Professionalism in Delivery of Police Services" is actually a better place to start than vigorous enforcement. When officers and staff demonstrate respect for, "...self, citizens, the community, and the law," they will be heading in the right direction. May this plan work for our fair city.
3. What measures can be taken on the state government level to lower crime in Mississippi, specifically Jackson?
The best way to prevent crime is by providing positive opportunities -- education and jobs. You start with the children and work your way on up to senior citizens. You educate the kids so they can get good jobs. It puts an end to poverty. That puts an end to crime. It is a bit of a simplification, but that is basically how it works in the long run. You either take care of them as youth in school or as adults in prison. Education is just the easier non-discriminatory way to do that.
Regarding Jackson I would suggest that we start becoming more involved in our community. Our citizens need to take more time to be citizens. Know your neighbors. Be concerned for their well being. Volunteer more. Invest time and talents in our town. This fosters community pride and hopefully serves as a deterrent to crime.
4. Many people believe that the criminal justice system (police-D.A.-courts) in Jackson is broken? What can the state do to help?
The first thing the state could do to alleviate stress on the criminal-justice system in Jackson is to pass legislation releasing non-violent drug offenders into the custody of rehabilitatory institutions. This would automatically have a dramatic affect on the volume of people with which our police and judges must interact. Secondly, I would make the courts non-ideological. There should be equal attention and monies given to both prosecution and defense. Common logic dictates that if there are more prosecutors than public defenders then cases will become backlogged. Logic also dictates that without proper compensation professionals will leave the field for better paying jobs in the private sector. Finally, regarding our judicial system I would place performance standards into affect. This would ensure that people are doing their jobs and taxpayer money is not being wasted.
5. What do you think of media coverage of crime in Mississippi/Jackson? Is it fair or too sensationalist?
In 2000 murder rates dropped across America, but the media coverage of murders increased 600%. Media coverage is extremely sensationalized.
6. What factors contribute to the crime rate in Mississippi?
Poverty, lack of education, lack of employment, these are all factors that play into the crime rate in Mississippi. As long as Mississippians remain at the bottom of a trickle down economy crime will remain a problem.
7. How can Mississippi/Jackson citizens contribute to reducing the crime rate?
"Fairness for families and community" is my campaign slogan. The more we can strengthen our families and our communities the quicker the crime rate will be reduced. It is all about personal and community responsibility. This means more volunteer hours, knowing your neighbors, walking around the block, taking an active role in your children's education.
8. Mayor Johnson and Chief Moore have both expressed alarm over liberal gun laws in the state that prevent them from taking guns off anyone 18, even if they're in a car-full of young people (except for felons). Would you support tightening gun laws in the state to help prevent crime? Why or why not?
Hunting has always been a part of Mississippi's culture. The best hunters are often the most responsible gun owners. Everyone would agree that an eighteen year old boy carrying a handgun in a car through the streets of a city should not be accorded the same legal consideration as a hunter. This means that something must be done to ensure the safety of our families and communities. Therefore, I would not oppose gun laws that respect the rights of hunters.
9. How would you ease prison/jail overcrowding?
Once again, lawmakers must be held accountable.
The United States incarcerates a higher percentage of it's own
population than any other nation in the world. In fact, according
to the Department of Justice, if recent incarceration rates remain
unchanged, an estimated one of every twenty persons will serve
time in a prison during their lifetime. Mississippi's Truth in
Sentencing Law may say that we are tough on crime, but it is unfair
to our families and our communities and is crippling our state.
As Governor, I would release the inmates in jail who are
non-violent drug offenders, and immediately commute their sentences
to some form of community service with rehabilitation. This would
have a direct impact on overcrowding and serve justice.
10. What are your views on the drug war? Specifically, do you support the growing movement to incarcerate fewer minor drug users, perhaps opting for rehabilitation or other types of programs? Please explain.
When the War on Drugs was declared I saw no stated goals or no standard for measuring its' success. I would like some accountability. Is it helping our Country? Is it protecting who it claims to protect? Are we spending taxpayer money effectively? I would venture the answers are all NO. Among the state prison inmates in 2000, 21 percent were from drug offenders. The horrible trend towards crowding our jails with non-violent drug offenders compounds the burden of our already overcrowded jail system, and too often is unfair to minorities. Explain to me why if you are black you have a 16.2 percent chance of being incarcerated or Hispanic a 9.4 percent chance versus if you are white you have only a 2.5 percent chance. Obviously we are not delegating justice evenly.
11. Do you believe juvenile offenders should be treated as adults?
No. Juvenile offenders are children and as such are not fully developed. Barring murder and rape, mistakes made by children should not affect the rest of their lives. When at all possible we must be about redeeming our children, not wasting their futures, our future, with often excessive penalties.
12. Please explain your views on the death penalty. Should juvenile offenders be subject to the death penalty? Should retarded individuals be subject to the death penalty?
I oppose to the death penalty. Greens reject violence as a way of settling disputes. It is shortsighted, morally wrong and ultimately self-defeating. Violence begets violence. Apart from vengeance the death penalty serves no purpose. If you can put the value of Life into the callous terms of dollars and cents it is actually $2.16 million more expensive per execution than a life sentence. Plus, of all the western industrialized countries the U.S. is the only country that has not abolished the death penalty as ineffective and inhumane.
Regarding the application of the death penalty to juvenile offenders do we really want to be in the company of Iran, Nigeria, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen? I ask that because these countries along with the U.S. are the only nations that maintain this outdated practice.
13. Are you concerned that innocent people could be executed?
YES! Since 1999, 24 persons sentenced to die were freed based on late DNA evidence.
14. Are you concerned that the poor and minorities are more likely to be executed than those who can afford better counsel?
Yes. The death penalty is not administered justly in the U.S. A person found guilty of murdering a white person, if you are poor, or if you happen to commit your crime in certain counties of certain states, you are much more likely to get the death penalty than otherwise.
1. How specifically will the Nissan plant impact the economy and employment in Mississippi?
I am very pleased that Nissan built a vehicle manufacturing plant in Mississippi, despite the high price we as a state had to pay to get them to locate here. In my opinion, Mississippi will not recover the investment and tax credits given to Nissan to locate in our state, but we can use the company's image to improve our state's image to the world. The competitive nature of the automobile industry will serve as a great example to our people so that they will improve their skills and abilities to compete with any other worker in the world. Through my leadership, we can use the Nissan plant to build a group of businesses-an industry- that will provide good paying jobs for our people.
2. Since 9/11, the economy of the nation, including Mississippi, has been under serious pressure. What programs or incentives could be implemented to produce economic stability?
Through my leadership, Mississippi's government sector can do several things that the current administration has not accomplished. First and foremost, we can bring to bear the agencies' and universities' technical capabilities to help private business improve productivity (output per worker). The government can help the state's 1.3 million workers become better prepared to compete with the workers of the world through higher skills attainment. Our universities can focus on applied research that will spin-off into products and services that create wealth and jobs. We will protect the environment and ensure fairness for families and communities. We will focus on setting a business environment whereby our citizens can create many new small businesses.
3. How will the addition of another nuclear power plant in Port Gibson affect the Mississippi economy? Is it worth the increased risk of terrorism or nuclear accident? Why, or why not?
The U.S. is the most energy intensive country in the world. In 2001, the U.S. consumed one quarter of the world energy primary energy, yet we are less than 5 percent of the world's population. Mississippi is no exception to that fact. We must develop more energy efficient products as well as learn to live with less energy usage. It is becoming more clear that wind power can be a significant source of electrical energy. Under my leadership, Mississippi will form partnerships with those states that have abundant wind power so that we can have our share of clean, safe energy.
4. The job market is predominately spearheaded by 24 major employers. What incentives do you think that Mississippi could offer to potential employers to diversify the employment market in Mississippi? Why types of employers should they be?
I am glad we have several large employers. We want them and we need them. However, Mississippi has approximately 60,000 businesses. More than 2/3 of citizens work for small businesses. The backbone of our economy is and will be small businesses. I will make sure our small businesses receive the same kinds of services and attention that the large businesses have. I will encourage the development of public and private capital funds that help small businesses form, and support strong local efforts to foster entrepreneurship.
5. A recent economic survey stated that the poverty rate in the city of Jackson increased by about 1 percent while the other major cities experienced major decreases. To what can you attribute the increase of the poverty rate for the city of Jackson?
The poverty rate represents an average over the entire population, and does not really tell us who, in particular, is well off, who is worse off. For that, it is necessary to examine poverty levels for particular groups. Most notably, blacks and Hispanics have poverty rates that greatly exceed the average. Of all family groups, poverty is highest among those headed by single women especially if they are black or Hispanic. In 2001 according to the U.S. Census Bureau, 26.4 percent of all female-headed families were poor, compared to 4.9 percent of families in which males were present. Among black and Hispanic families headed by women, poverty rates exceeded 35 percent.
Jackson has a high number of female-headed families. We must concentrate on reducing teen-age pregnancies that lead to single parent families. We have to do a better job in instilling a desire in our citizens for education, and skill attainment so that career choices result in good paying jobs that eliminate poverty.
6. Children in Mississippi live in more dire poverty than any other state. What should be done to change this?
Reducing Mississippi's rate of teen pregnancy is one of the most strategic and direct means available to improve overall child well being and to reduce persistent child poverty. Teen pregnancy has serious consequences for the teen mother, the child, and to society in general. With that in mind, I would make sure that our agencies and educational institutions help every young woman understand her responsibilities in bringing a child in the world.
7. A recent Mississippi State economic report said that Mississippi needs to employ more progressive taxation such as the income tax. What are your views?
Part of my platform is fairness for families and communities. I concur with Governor Riley of Alabama that the more fortunate have a moral and religious duty to help the lesser advantaged. We want to be fair because it is the right thing to do. We can and should shift a significant portion of sales taxation to individual income, corporate, and gaming taxes.
8. As governor, how will you propose that the state pay its bills starting next year? What taxes should be raised and/or what cuts should be implemented? Please be specific.
First, I will implement a zero-based budgeting process so that we will know what programs and services are important and deserve to be continued and improved. It makes no sense for each agency to show up at the September budgets hearing with a budget that is 10% larger than the previous budget just because that's the way it has always been done. My common sense tells me that we could eliminate $350 million in expenses without cutting any services. If the state's next budget will really be $700 to 800 million short of actual revenue, then I would impose taxes on individual, corporate, and gaming.
9. The governor of Alabama recently asked for a tax increase in order to pay the state's bills. He argued, in part, that the state has a moral and religious duty to help its least advantaged. Do you agree with this philosophy? Why or why not?
Each of us are only passing through this world. I don't know of anyone who carried their land, house and possessions with them when they departed earth. If we are all in this world together, then shouldn't we be helping each other as much as possible? In Luke 12:48b, it is said, "From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked." I have been given much and I want to give back my part.
10. What economic development efforts need to happen in Mississippi over the next four years?
In terms of making an immediate impact on our economy, 4 years is not enough time to make any significant difference. But as governor, I will start economic development efforts that allow the children entering first grade this year to have higher paying jobs when they enter the workforce in 2020. I will pick one state agency and charge them with developing and implementing a workforce development strategy. I will lead our economic development groups in the formation of a long-term plan that all of us support and take our part in implementing. I will form an industrial extension effort in our universities that will help our businesses become world competitive.
11. Do you support a federal minimum wage for workers? Why, or why not?
The federal minimum wage is established by and regulated under the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938. In the last seven years the United States Senate has approved five pay hikes for its' members while the minimum wage has remained stagnant. I want to be fair to families and communities, so I support a Federal minimum wage. At the same time I will do everything I can to make sure that our agencies and educational institutions are helping people improve their skills to earn better wages.
12. What should be done about Mississippi's high unemployment rate?
While there may be all sorts of economic theories on the cause and solution to high unemployment, the simple answer is that people must improve their skills in order to be desirable for employment or to improve wages. I will focus my efforts on reducing high unemployment by encouraging people to improve their skills and by providing the easy and low-cost access to workforce skills development .
13. Do you support President Bush's recent tax cuts? Explain how they will help/hurt Mississippians. Be specific.
I am for tax cuts at the federal, state, and local level, but the cuts must be fair and equitable. President Bush's tax cut plan is unfair. The centerpiece of his proposed cuts was the elimination of the tax on stock dividends and was targeted almost exclusively to the well-off. This tax cut will allow tax breaks for the top 1 percent of taxpayers, but it probably won't help anyone get a job. The only thing this plan will "stimulate" is more economic inequality in the U.S. If that is the mind-set of this administration, then I do not support his tax cuts.
1. What can be done to stop racial profiling by police and other officials? Should the state pass strong anti-racial-profiling legislation? Why or why not?
Yes, the state should pass strong anti-racial-profiling legislation. In non-black neighborhoods and some Jackson suburbs, black males are too readily stopped simply because of their race. Police should provide justification for stopping any group of drivers or pedestrians. Only when a particular crime has occurred and the physical features of suspects have been identified should focus be placed on a particular sector of the population.
2. Should the government help to protect the rights of homosexual couples looking to adopt? If so, what can be done to protect those rights?
The recent Supreme Court decision of Lawrence v. Texas was a step in the right direction. I want children to have loving homes. If a gay couple can provide that who am I to stop it? Yes, the government should act to protect these rights. The record shows that gay couples often make fine parents. Laws should be enacted and enforced to prevent discrimination against gay couples seeking to adopt.
3. Do you support affirmative action? Please explain reasoning.
Yes. Children with college educated parents are more likely to go to college. Mississippi's white citizens must assume some responsibility for the obstacles that have kept more black parents and grandparents from having a college education. Affirmative action should be supported for minority groups that have been historically disadvantaged. All beneficiaries of affirmative action should meet certain standards of accomplishment that would show their ability to succeed in the program to which they are applying. Affirmative action facilitates the advancement of minorities to enable these groups to create role models that will inspire other group members to strive to achieve, with the effect of lessening the imbalance between majority and minority groups in higher status positions.
4. What are the strengths and weakness of affirmative action? How can the weaknesses be converted into strengths?
Children with college educated parents are more likely to go to college. The strength is that affirmative action addresses this problem in the black community. The weakness is that it does not address the problem in the white community.
5. How/should the Mississippi Legislature strengthen gender equality in the workplace?
Legislation in the form of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 already exists to address this problem. Laws against gender discrimination should be more strongly enforced. As Governor I would establish a state hotline to address the issue of gender inequity in the workplace.
6. If certain symbols of the state's past are degrading to a percentage of its people should they still be used? Explain your answer.
No. To many of Mississippi's citizens, black and white, the Confederate flag suggests white superiority. I think it would be in our state's best interest to move into this century with a flag that suggests equality.
7. What should happen next over the Confederate battle emblem in the state flag?
Citizens should be allowed to fly it under a new state flag.
8. Should the state actively try to prosecute old civil rights cases, such as Chaney, Goodman and Schwerner in Philadelphia?
Yes, if we did not pursue these cases then justice would never be served. Remember our hero, Medgar Evers. The prosecution of these cases serves to reconcile Mississippi with its' past and it demonstrates to the world that Mississippi is a state that seeks integrity and justice. To not address these cases and set the record straight is to accept a false history of ourselves.
9. What, if anything, does Mississippi need to do to address its racist reputation?
In fairness to our families and communities the best way to address the past is to move forward together into the future. The better off black Mississippians are the better off Mississippi is. The better off white Mississippians are the better off Mississippi is. To foster these more congenial relations the state should hold dialogues on issues relevant to race. These should take place periodically, at different sites around the state, and should focus on issues that are particularly timely, such as the state flag, allegations of racial discrimination, and abuse by police. We must grow past unfortunate chapters in our history.
1. How do you believe the recent FCC vote relaxing media ownership restrictions would affect the state of Mississippi?
Being a professional musician, I have seen several locally owned radio stations be sucked up by corporate conglomerates. Every time this has happened I have felt a little bit of Mississippi chipped away. The FCC has made it easier for conglomerates to suck up local stations. I hope there is some of Mississippi left.
2. Many states and municipalities are passing resolutions protesting recent federal attempts to weaken protections of civil liberties. Would you support such a resolution?
I'm assuming you mean the Patriot Act weakening the Fourth Amendment. The answer is yes, I do protest the weakening of civil liberties. They are what define our great nation. I would support such a resolution.
3. Do you believe violent and explicit lyrics or films influence youths to commit crimes? If so, should there be stricter laws to censor these types of entertainment?
Research indicates that there is a direct correlation between the amount of violence children are exposed to and whether or not they will exhibit violent behavior themselves. Parents have a responsibility to their families and our communities to protect their children from prolonged exposure to media violence. As a Green I support nonviolence. We should strive towards a society where violence does not equate entertainment. However, a move towards censorship should be made very cautiously. More vigorous enforcement of current rating systems would be a good place to start regarding this issue.
4. Would you allow a religious-based group to erect signs or crosses on the Capitol lawn to protest abortion? If yes, would you allow groups with a different viewpoint equal time and access?
Yes, they should be allowed to do so if they go through the appropriate channels. They should not be discriminated against because they are a religious group. As for equal time -- of course.
5. Mississippians could be faced with the decision of whether to vote for an anti-flag burning amendment to the Constitution? Would you support such an amendment? Why or why not?
Flag burning is not a problem in Mississippi.
1. What needs to happen (specific programs or initiatives, curriculum changes, etc.) to boost student enrollment rates at Mississippi colleges and universities?
According to Ronnie Musgrove the current matriculation rate for high school seniors to colleges and universities in Mississippi is 63 percent. That seems like a good number to me, but I say let's try to keep them here when they graduate.
2. At JSU there is a programs that provides GED assistance to the public at no cost. Do you believe that funding for these programs should be included in the school's budget? What should be done to guarantee that funding of such programs is not cut?
Yes. First apply for all applicable federal funds, second trim down the fat, third tax corporate and gaming, and as a last resort tax individuals on a progressive model.
3. In recent years public college tuition has steadily increased, not just in Mississippi but nationwide. Why has this happened? What should be done to ensure that all young people can still afford to attend college? Are there any untapped sources of revenue to help higher education?
The unprecedented federal deficit and faltering economy over the past several years have placed a great strain on many state budgets around the nation. This has caused monies to be siphoned off from beneficial social programs specifically our colleges and universities. However, pressure should be placed on institutions that raise tuition well beyond the rate of inflation. Some institutions need to operate more efficiently rather than increase the burden on their students. More assistance should be provided students based on need. With regard to untapped sources, the gambling industry pays a low tax rate compared to many other states. Why not increase the tax rate and earmark the added revenue for higher education?
4. What do you think of JSU's 20-20 plan for its future?
Jackson State University is to be commended for its' broad vision and future focus represented by Vision 2020. It's a very Green idea. Restructuring the school to make it an "urban laboratory...for producing well-trained professionals who are well grounded in the liberal arts and humanities," is an excellent way to ensure that our workforce is prepared for the challenges it faces in the 21st Century. It gives me hope to see an institution like Jackson State assume responsibility for internal accountability and ensuring proper use of scarce resources. It is my understanding that as a direct result of too many departments and not enough students to justify their operation this program commenced.
5. What changes to higher education curriculum would you propose, and why?
I propose that online academic courses be offered to every Mississippi citizen throughout their entire lives. This makes it more accessible to our citizens, and it keeps us competitive with other states.
6. Should Ole Miss retire the Colonel Reb symbol? Why, or why not?
Yes. It's the 21st Century. We need to move beyond symbols of a war that we lost in the 19th Century.
1. What should be done, on the state and national level, to ensure that uninsured patients receive affordable health care?
Personally, I would like to see a "No Person Left Behind Health Plan" for every citizen in the United States. Quality health care should be a basic human right. This is social justice.
2. The American Medical Association recently launched an ad campaign about the Medicare payment formula flaw that they say will result in many seniors not getting the proper health care that they deserve. What can be done to help fix this flaw?
AMA's President, Yank D. Coble, Jr., M.D. said, "Under the current payment formula, physicians are penalized if services to Medicare patients grow more rapidly than the gross domestic product (GDP). At times of slow economic growth, it is likely that Medicare spending on physician services will exceed the target and trigger cuts in physician payments. The health care needs of America's seniors don't change with the ups and downs of the U.S. economy. Patients and physicians lose under a formula that cuts Medicare payments when the overall economy slows and when more health care services are provided to seniors." This means that many doctors will refuse to service seniors on Medicare because it will entail the doctor paying to treat the patient. The last thing we want to do is to hurt access to care for Mississippi's seniors. If the American Medical Association can come up with a viable alternative I say we endorse! it, but once again let me say that quality health care should be a basic human right.
3. Do you feel that the Prescription Drug Act is the best plan to help seniors receive the medicine they need? If not, what would be a better plan?
So far as I can tell the Prescription Drug Act is bad news for seniors in Mississippi. This legislation is unfair to families and communities by virtue of the fact that it disrupts community life while gouging the already tight purses of seniors with limited incomes. The legislation relies almost exclusively on unregulated and unlicensed Pharmacy Benefit Mangers (PBM) where local pharmacies had provided services in the past. Although PBM's provide important pharmacy benefits for seniors, they are not qualified to provide cost-effective patient care services. This form of centralization is becoming more prevalent in many aspects of our lives, and to tamper with the integral role of the local pharmacist in community life is a bad idea. According to Federal Employees' Health Benefits Program (FEHBP) which is administered by some of the same PBMs that are used for Medicare, in recent years the program has seen sharp premium increases. Not t! o rehash it, but health care should be a basic human right.
4. The proportion of Mississippians receiving health care at community health centers is 8.6 percent, which is considerably higher than the 2.7 percent nationwide. What factors do you think contribute to this? How can this situation be changed?
I am no expert, but I can only imagine that our status as an unhealthy state has something to do with our high rates of smoking, obesity, and heart disease. These factors would seem to contribute to the disproportionate percentage from the national number. Although I must admit I am just glad that there are community health centers to serve our families and communities. As for changing the situation, I would advocate education on the three counts above. Plus, I would once again mention health care as a basic human right.
5. What should the state do to help improve the poor health of its citizenry?
Education. Education. Education. Programs such as Partnership for a Healthy Mississippi, Catch-a-Kid, and physical education classes in schools are addressing this issue. Their funding should remain intact. Another way to improve our poor health is by properly utilizing nurses. To alleviate strain from the doctor shortage, nurses could be authorized via legislation to write prescriptions for general health medications, i.e. penicillin, etc. I would also advocate the use of nurse midwives for pre-natal care and in delivering of children.
6. More young people with disabilities in Mississippi are being treated in large institutional facilities than nationwide. Should these patients be moved into more community-based programs?
As a Green Party candidate I feel community should always be the first answer. Disabled children are a part of the community, and I reject the idea that they are not. If community-based programs can support the overflow then it would be a step in the right direction.
7. Does Mississippi have a medical malpractice crisis?
If doctors are leaving Mississippi out of fear of medical malpractice suits that makes it a crisis.
8. What are the factors that contribute to doctors leaving the state?
Jackpot Justice + irresponsible lawyers + unjust insurance companies = Mississippi's medical malpractice crisis.
9. What are your primary environmental concerns in the state? What needs to be done?
Many people discount the environment. They hear the word and immediately become reactionary. This I believe is ironic considering that the very nature of environmentalism is conservation. Being Green is about conserving the resources you have, being a good steward of God's gift the Earth. Being Green is not about neglecting humanity. At its' core is the goal to look after the needs of the seventh generation equally to those of the present. To break it down into more graspable terms we are making sure that the air, land and water that we enjoy today can be utilized by our great-grandchildren's great-grandchildren. There is a Native-American proverb that embodies this thought,"We do not inherit the land from our Fathers, but rather we borrow it from our children."
Seemingly with a population of just under two million people you would think that there would be few environmental problems in Mississippi, at least none of any scope. This however, is not true. In fact, there are four major environmental challenges facing our state that I would address as Governor: 1. air quality in North Mississippi, 2. water quality of our streams, rivers and lakes 3. blocking the expansion of the reactor at Grand Gulf in Port Gibson and 4. protecting our endangered forests.
Please see the additional comments section for more information.
1. What is your campaign doing to reach uninterested and apathetic voters?
We carry voter registration forms at all times. I figure even a vote for someone else is better than no vote at all. We are also educating voters about the Four Pillars of the Green Party.
Ecological Wisdom - We are all a part of the world around us. Whatever we do to it we do to ourselves.
Grassroots Democracy - This means making our politicians accountable to the People not their campaign contributors. Every citizen should have a voice in political, environmental and economic decisions that affect their lives.
Social Justice - The worldwide growth of poverty and injustice is unacceptable. We are working for a world in which all can fulfill their potential regardless of their gender, race, citizenship, or orientation.
Nonviolence - Greens reject violence as a way of settling disputes. It is shortsighted, morally wrong and ultimately self-defeating. We are working to end war forever.
Another key to attracting interest from apathetic voters is the fact that I am not accepting corporate contributions or those from individuals over the amount of $200. This let's people know right off the bat that they matter to me.
2. How can elected officials in Mississippi excite young (18-30) voters and constituents?
First, they could stop excepting corporate contributions. This would let young people know that as a politician they are not bought and sold. Another idea would be for the Secretary of State's office to publish a voter handbook, listing all candidates and their qualifications.
3. What are you doing specifically to attract and address concerns of young voters?
Before the election I will be visiting every public college and university and talking to students about their concerns for the future. I am asking them to stay here and make Mississippi a better place rather than fleeing upon graduation.
4. What do you believe young voters are most concerned about?
Jobs and the environment.
5. What are you doing to appeal to voters of color?
On the campaign trail I have appeared on the Charles Evers Show and at the 100 Black Men Picnic. I have plans to address NAACP groups around the state. Personally, I attend an integrated church and have an integrated family. How many candidates can say that? I am aware that because of the newness of the Green Party that we do not have a history with people of color, but I am asking them to watch me, listen to me, check-up on me and then weigh in. If they think I am a candidate they can follow I would appreciate their vote.
6. How do you define "family values"? Does a particular party adhere to family values more than others? Please explain.
When I married my wife I was nineteen and she was eighteen. After thirty-three years we have seven children and five grandchildren. Not one of my children ever spent a day in day care. I currently take care of four of my grandbabies on a daily basis. My retired mother lives with me. That makes me no worse or no better than anyone else, but it for sure means I am aware of the challenges that many Mississippi families and communities face today. From my experience folks who scream family values' the loudest are usually not concerned about fairness to family or community.
7. Do you believe that "tort reform" has become a new political wedge issue? Is the current "tort reform" debate healthy for Mississippi politics? Please explain.
Tort reform has indeed become a wedge issue in Mississippi politics, and I would say to the detriment of the average Mississippian. While doctors, lawyers and insurance companies quibble over who is to blame for the malpractice crisis folks out in places like Itta Benna suffer. We must tame the blade that is tort reform.
8. Is it constitutional to limit the right of American citizens to sue?
According to the Seventh Amendment, "... the right of trial by jury shall be preserved, no fact tried by a jury, shall be otherwise reexamined in any court of the United States, than according to the rules of the common law." Given this, I would venture that limits on a citizen's right to sue are unconstitutional. Ultimately, the power lies with the People. However, I would add that our society has placed such a high premium on having money that we have become among the most litigious people in history, using our courts as a get-rich-quick scheme. This is bad. Jackpot Justice.
9. Is it constitutional to limit the amount of damages that a jury can award in a civil case?
No, otherwise you would have to change the Bill of Rights. See the Seventh Amendment. The real issue of limit on damages goes beyond the jury's right to do so. The real issue is multi-billion dollar corporations getting away with murder, literally, to the tune of $250,000. The movie Erin Brokavich demonstrates this point well. PG&E in California systematically poisoned many families, an entire community. It was cheaper to do that than to clean up the mess they had created. With limits on damages these powerful corporations, which unjustly have the same rights under the Constitution as you and I -- actual citizens, would never be punished for wrong doings. Limits are a very bad idea. If you want to curb outrageous jury awards hailing from various rural Mississippi counties, then you start by providing genuine economic development and stellar educational programs.
10. If you are currently holding this office, what is your biggest success?
n/a
11. Biggest regret?
n/a
1. Do you have pets? What are their names?
Yes, a Siberian husky. His name is Champ, sometimes called Chump.
2. Who are your favorite musicians? Who was your favorite when you were 16?
Me of course! No, just kidding. What a hard question. My favorite musicians are not the folks I hear on the radio or C.D.s but those that I hang out with and have gigged with around town through the years. My favorite musicians when I was sixteen were George Harrison, Jimmie Reed and Chet Atkins.
3. What do you watch on television?
Sesame Street and Dora the Explorer. You've got to remember my five grandkids.
4. What are the last three books you read?
Life of St. Francis; People's History of the United States of America; Plutonium Files.
5. How did you meet your wife/husband? (if applicable)
After my junior year at Mississippi College, I was performing one night and saw her sitting by the door of the club. Later that night I commented to a friend that I had seen the prettiest girl that I had ever seen in my life. The next evening I walked in and someone said to me, "I have someone I want you to meet. Her name is Louise." That was the first time we met. I married her within the month.
6. Where is your absolute favorite spot to escape to in Mississippi?
It used to be the Subway Lounge.
7. Do you have a nickname?
"Gov"
8. What is one thing that would absolutely shock and surprise Mississippians about you?
Out of seven children not one spent a day in child care. My wife and I always did it ourselves.
My administration's foremost concern for the environment in Mississippi would be the air quality of North Mississippi. Of all of the polluted places in America it is astounding to know that Lee County is the number one producer of emissions in the nation. What? That's right, not L.A. or New York, but Tupelo is at the core of bad air quality in our nation. This coupled with the fact that Metro-Memphis which includes DeSoto County is listed as having the fifteenth worst air quality in the nation makes North Mississippi one of the most polluted places in the nation. As far as I am concerned this is unacceptable, and we must get a reign on our emissions.
The first thing I would do to address this problem would be to educate the populace to these facts. Most Mississippians are unaware that this is reality. I truly believe that if we all knew these facts that we would take enough pride in our state to find a solution.
All over our state mercury levels are on the rise. If you were to haul a fifteen-pound catfish out of Grenada Lake it would be advisable to throw it back because the mercury levels are dangerous. The poor, little, ole town of Grenada has a billboard off of I-55 that says, "Get hooked on Grenada." This is a bad idea if you don't want mercury poisoning. Once again, I believe this all boils down to education. If our citizenry knew about these things they would be outraged to action. We must foster care for our rivers, lakes and streams.
This year Mississippi is one of three states in the nation that has energy companies seeking an Early Site Permit (ESP) through the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to allow for the potential expansion of existing reactor sites. Nuclear energy though touted as clean energy is anything but that. The reactor at Grand Gulf alone creates 40,000 tons of nuclear waste per year. Given that there is no way to properly dispose of this very toxic material for thousands of years it would appear to be a bad idea to want a second helping of it. I would vigorously oppose the expansion at Grand Gulf as Governor.
Just recently Mississippi forest were placed on an international list of endangered places. The species diversity, both flora and fauna, is unparalleled in other places in the world. At the same time these precious gifts are at peril from logging. One of my first acts as Governor would be to protect these living legacies by introducing roadless area legislation to the Legislature and restricting private companies from making a profit on state lands to the detriment of our children's' children.