State Senate District 11
Term: 4 yearsIn general, the functions of the State Legislature (House & Senate) are to enact, amend, and repeal the laws of Tennessee. Some of the specific powers granted to the General Assembly by the state Constitution include: the appropriation of all money to be paid out of the state treasury; the levy and collection of taxes; and the right to authorize counties and incorporated towns to levy taxes.The Senate is composed of 33 members who are elected to four-year terms of office. They are elected by the voters of their Senate legislative district. A senator must be a citizen of the United States, at least 30 years old, a citizen of Tennessee for at least three years and a resident of the county or district he represents for at least one year before the election. While Senate terms are for four years, approximately half of the senators run for office every two years by odd- and even-numbered districts. This is generally referred to as staggered terms.
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Tim Roberts
(Dem)
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Bo Watson
(Rep)
How long have you lived in Hamilton County?
What is the greatest challenge you anticipate facing if you are elected?
What characteristics do you possess and/or what life experiences have you had that make you believe that you are the most qualified person for this office?
I have live in Hamilton County for the last 26 years and for all but 10 years of my 45 years on this earth. I was born just over the border in NW Georgia and moved to Hamilton County after my parents divorced.
Being able to introduce new ideas or bills due to Tennessee being a Republican super majority. But I'm not going to let that dissuade me.
I think the greatest characteristic that I bring to the table is Empathy. I honestly did not know that other people don't think about how their actions might affect others all the time. Or feel real pain when you see someone else in anguish.
Having empathy has allowed me to be able to actually put myself into another's shoes and to be able to see things from their perspective at times.
Growing up, my brother and I went to 10 different schools in the area. Mom got hurt at work and money became an issue. We were on food stamps, free lunch at school, and like most other poor kids were doing our best to get by. I know what it means to not have enough.
I'm currently waiting on my 6th surgery on my ankle and have had 2 cervical fusion surgeries in the past 3 years. I know what having medical debt and just dealing with the insurance companies is like.
I've lived the life of most of our citizens. I'm not some rich kid looking grow my wealth. I want to help others because I've been there.
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