2008 Candidate Survey Responses & Voter Guide

R L Clark (Republican)
Senate District 49

1. What are your top three policy priorities for your term, if elected?

I’m a Republican Because…
I BELIEVE the strength of our nation lies with the individual and that each person’s dignity, freedom, ability and responsibility must be honored.
I BELIEVE in equal rights, equal justice and equal opportunity for all, regardless of race, creed, sex, age or disability.
I BELIEVE free enterprise and encouraging individual initiative have brought this nation opportunity, economic growth and prosperity.
I BELIEVE government must practice fiscal responsibility and allow individuals to keep more of the money they earn.
I BELIEVE the proper role of government is to provide for the people only those critical functions that cannot be performed by individuals or private organizations, and that the best government is that which governs least.
I BELIEVE the most effective, responsible and responsive government is government closest to the people.
I BELIEVE Americans must retain the principles that have made us strong while developing new and innovative ideas to meet the challenges of changing times.
I BELIEVE Americans value and should preserve our national strength and pride while working to extend peace, freedom and human rights throughout the world.
FINALLY, I believe the Republican Party is the best vehicle for translating these ideals into positive and successful principles of government.
 

2.An estimated 16-20% of Buncombe County’s children and youth live in poverty; many more live in low-income families facing many of the stresses and challenges of families living in poverty – especially in the current economic downturn. What initiatives or policies do you support to reduce the impact of child poverty?

[Mr. Clark only submitted the document titled “Principles of the Republican Party” as his response to the survey. It is printed in Question 1.]
 

3. North Carolina’s dropout rate and educational achievement gap between white students and students of color have been a focus of politicians, educators, and advocates over the past two years. In your opinion, what are effective ways that the General Assembly can address these issues?

[Mr. Clark only submitted the document titled “Principles of the Republican Party” as his response to the survey. It is printed in Question 1.]

4. North Carolina was one of a few states that enjoyed a budget surplus this fiscal year. However, there still were not enough funds to meet the growing demands for education, health, and human services funding proposed by many legislative leaders and the Governor. What, if any, tax or budget reforms are needed to ensure sustainable funds for state programs in education, health, and human services?

[Mr. Clark only submitted the document titled “Principles of the Republican Party” as his response to the survey. It is printed in Question 1.]

5. Air and water quality are part of a myriad of environmental factors that can impact public health – especially in children. What policies do you support, or propose, that can assure a robust natural environment for current and future generations?

[Mr. Clark only submitted the document titled “Principles of the Republican Party” as his response to the survey. It is printed in Question 1.]

6. Affordable, high-quality child care ensures working parents can stay in the workforce and promotes positive child development. Within the child care industry, most child care providers in Buncombe County are not paid a “living wage” ($11.35/hr as calculated by Asheville-Buncombe Living Wage Campaign). Several state-funded programs impact child care availability, affordability, quality, and provider salaries. What are your recommendations for the state’s future role in providing both affordable, high-quality child care and promoting good-paying jobs within the childcare industry?

[Mr. Clark only submitted the document titled “Principles of the Republican Party” as his response to the survey. It is printed in Question 1.]
 

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