Phil Bredesen in Survey of Gubernatorial campaign websites, 2001-2009

On Crime: Supports the death penalty

Supporting the death penalty: I believe alleged criminals are entitled to due process under the law and I support lawful executions to punish the most violent offenders. Source: 2006 Gubernatorial website, bredesen.com, “Issues” Nov 7, 2006

On Drugs: Proliferation of meth is one of the most serious threats

Attacking methamphetamine manufacturing and abuse: I believe the proliferation of meth is one of the most serious threats facing rural, urban and suburban Tennessee. I’m proud to report that our comprehensive Meth-Free Tennessee Initiative has cut the number of toxic meth labs in our state by 50% since March 2005. We’re continuing the fight against meth with education and enforcement programs. Source: 2006 Gubernatorial website, bredesen.com, “Issues” Nov 7, 2006

On Education: Raise teacher pay;expand pre-K

I believe education is Tennessee’s fundamental priority. It’s the key to growing a strong economy, ensuring future success for our children and improving the quality of life for all Tennesseans. My top priorities include:

Fully funding the Basic Education Program (BEP).
Raising teacher pay.
Expanding pre-kindergarten programs.
Encouraging reading initiatives.

Source: 2006 Gubernatorial website, bredesen.com, “Issues” Nov 7, 2006

On Health Care: Cover Tennessee: provide affordable, portable insurance

Providing affordable, portable health insurance to working Tennesseans: In 2006, I announced a new initiative known as Cover Tennessee. At its heart is a partnership between the state and small business to help adults buy affordable insurance that follows them, no matter where they work, and that doesn’t require high deductibles on the front end.
Insuring children and the uninsurable.
Improving the health of all Tennesseans, especially young adults.

Source: 2006 Gubernatorial website, bredesen.com, “Issues” Nov 7, 2006

On Immigration: Develop sensible, uniform national policies for immigration

Working with the federal government to address illegal immigration: Illegal immigration is a national issue that requires a coordinated national response. I’m working with Democrats and Republicans in the National Governors Association to encourage and support the federal government in its efforts to develop sensible, uniform national policies for addressing this issue. Source: 2006 Gubernatorial website, bredesen.com, “Issues” Nov 7, 2006

On Tax Reform: Balance state needs--without an income tax

I believe state government must balance available resources with the increasing demands of education, job creation, health care and other vital priorities--without an income tax. My budget and management priorities include:

Submitting a balanced budget.
Preparing for economic downturns.
Rebuilding investor confidence.
Maintaining a hands-on approach.

Source: 2006 Gubernatorial website, bredesen.com, “Issues” Nov 7, 2006

On Crime: Supports fair and accurate executions

Phil believes execution is the appropriate punishment for certain crimes. As governor, Phil will not stand in the way of lawful executions in Tennessee, but when government has the authority to take someone’s life, Phil knows that government must do everything possible to assure that the right person is convicted and the legal process is fully and fairly exhausted. Source: 2002 Gubernatorial site, Bredesen.com, “Death Penalty” Oct 17, 2002

On Gun Control: Against new restrictions; for gun safety education

Bredesen believes in the Second Amendment. He will not support or pass new gun control laws that infringe on law-abiding citizens. We need to do a better job of maintaining and strengthening the enforcement of existing federal and state laws. Bredesen will work with local and state sporting groups to promote gun safety, education and responsibility - starting with our children. Source: 2002 Gubernatorial site, Bredesen.com, “Sportsmen’s Rights” Oct 17, 2002

On Health Care: Reform TennCare with more regulation of MCOs

Tighten Up Eligibility - improve the verification process & deter fraud;
Reform Benefits Package - tailor benefits based on funding levels;
Toughen Regulation - bring in experienced regulators who know how to make sure managed care organizations (MCOs) are doing things right.

Source: 2002 Gubernatorial site, Bredesen.com, “Issues: TennCare” Oct 17, 2002

The above quotations are from Survey of Gubernatorial campaign websites, 2001-2009. Click here for other excerpts from Survey of Gubernatorial campaign websites, 2001-2009. Click here for other excerpts by Phil Bredesen. Click here for other excerpts by other Governors.
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Page last updated: Dec 02, 2018