Editors: July 24 release that Padgett mentions is at www.votepadgett.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                             Contact: Terry Quillen
Aug. 4, 2008                                                          615.305.5062

 

PADGETT ONLY DEMOCRAT WITH BIPARTISAN SKILLS

Solutions for struggling Tennesseans more important than politics

MEMPHIS – Tennesseans need a senator who understands how to reach across the aisle and find practical solutions to problems like $4-a-gallon gas, U.S. Senate candidate Mike Padgett said Monday.

Padgett pointed to Friday’s bipartisan plan for gas-price legislation that includes provisions he proposed last month.

“While Americans are spending $80 a pop to fill up their cars and trucks, members of the Senate – Senator Alexander chief among them – spent weeks sniping at each other and ended up adjourning last week with nothing passed to address the gas price crisis,” Padgett said.

“Common sense finally prevailed late Friday when a bipartisan group of senators came up with a compromise plan that at least will give the Senate a good starting point when they’re back from the August break.

“The plan put forth by this ‘Gang of 10’ includes, among other things, drilling off the coasts of states that agree to it, ending tax breaks for the oil industry and funding for alternative energy sources. I proposed this very compromise July 24 in a news release.

“The point is I know how to think outside the partisan box and get things done instead of getting stuck in the mud of political bickering.”
With more than 20 years in public service, Padgett says he has the experience that his Democratic opponents lack in practical problem-solving.

“In a Republican stronghold like Knox County, I had to be able to work with members of the other party if I was going to accomplish anything. And I had to be able to win Republican votes, or I wouldn’t have been elected seven times.

“It’s going to take that kind of strength to beat Senator Alexander in November – and it’s something that none of my Democratic opponents can claim.”

William "Mike" Padgett is former Knox County Clerk and small business owner. He and Patty, his wife of 37 years, have three grown children, Matt, Mark and Sara Beth.
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