I have known Don Stout for over 30 years. Don was a Conservative Republican then, as he is today. He did not have to switch parties to run for office. He has received numerous awards and served on boards without pay to give back to the community. He was co-owner of a successful business, which under his leadership, grew from 9 to nearly 300 employees. Don does not just talk the talk, he walks the walk.
Don believes in term limits. He will work to repeal the never-ending gas tax. He is against turning our beautiful part of Alabama into Las Vegas. Don will donate his salary. He will not take a penny to serve you. Don will represent everyone equally. He will not show favoritism to one city, town, or community.
Over the years, I have seen many people go to Montgomery with great ideas and a pledge to represent everyone. I then saw them get in bed with the special interests, build political dynasties, and get their cronies elected to offices such as county commission, school board, and others. They get so powerful that if another elected official does not agree with them or opposes them on an issue, they will have one of their cronies run against them.
When these type of officials go to Montgomery and are opposed to re-election, you can bet their special interest groups will come to their rescue with tons of money. They will then make their rounds to cities and towns and all the fire departments making promises and handing out discretionary money that many think is their own money. Once their dynasty is established, you can bet their family, friends, and cronies wind up with jobs, positions, and favors. After becoming a puppet for special interests and bogged down in the Montgomery swamp, they usually become very wealthy. This is the playbook that is used by many of the people we send to Montgomery.
Now, my question is, did Don Stout's opponent find a copy of the playbook in some dusty desk drawer at the State House, or was he given a copy when he went to Montgomery?
Lara Bing Lamar Bray PO Box 232 Valley Head, AL 35989
