Luther Strange

Cullman Times
Sept. 2, 2007
By Carolyn Arrington

The local Republican breakfast and social was held Saturday morning from at Jack's Restaurant...

Guest Speaker was Luther Strange, 2006 Republican candidate for Lieutenant Governor of Alabama. He spoke about the importance of organizing and maintaining grass-roots support of the Republican Party on the local level.

He said that even though there have been recent issues regarding some Republican elected officials, such as Idaho Republican Senator Larry Craig's scandal, and controversy about the war in Iraq, he's been speaking to local groups and encouraging people to stay involved at the community level and be optimistic.

Strange said, "In general, where does our party stand? Well, Bob Riley is the best governor we've ever had. It'll be hard to replace him in three years, and we need to find someone like Riley to be the turning point for our next election."

In the last few years Strange said he's been involved in economic development for the state of Alabama. "I grew up with wonderful, hardworking parents, but we were not given anything. My parents worked hard, and I have too, all my life. I believe that giving people the opportunity to work and support their family is one of the most important necessities in life. Bringing more economic development into a region, as you have done here in Cullman County, is a way to offer more folks good jobs."

Speaking about educational issues, he said, "The junior college problems we've had lately, it's a watershed issue which just highlights legislature problems."