Democrat Senate hopeful Terry Anderson has not voted in nearly four years

July 19, 2004

(Zanesville, Ohio) - Senator Joy Padgett (R-Coshocton) today released the following statement in response to a Sunday, July 18 Athens Messenger story in which it was reported that Padgett's opponent, Northeast Ohio native Terry Anderson, has not voted in a general election since November 2000.

"This reminds me of someone who skips church for years, then shows up all of a sudden one day demanding to be the preacher! It just doesn't pass the smell test for sincerity.

"Voting is a sacred right that should not be so easily dismissed, especially by those who seek to lead. My opponent's spotty voting record calls into question the sincerity of his political rhetoric, not to mention his level of commitment to working toward a brighter future in the region.

"My commitment to the people of Southeastern Ohio remains unchanged. Throughout this campaign and into the future, I will continue to provide steady, experienced leadership for Southeastern Ohio workers and their families."

Commentary:
Terry Anderson officially announced his candidacy for Senate on December 29. At that event, Anderson revealed his position on concealed carry reform.

"To me, it's a false issue," he said. "It's a hot-button issue that gets to people's emotions, but it's not relevant to most real lives here. Passing concealed carry is not going to bring one more dollar into the schools of southeastern Ohio."

Padgett has been involved with state government since 1991, and was the original sponsor of legislation allowing certain Ohioans to carry concealed firearms.

Anderson, a past member of the liberal academic and media-elite, has never held public office.

Senator Joy Padgett is a 2004 OFCC PAC endorsee.

Related Story:
Pro-concealed carry Joy Padgett sworn in as senator