Republican state Senate candidate Doug Harwell announced Wednesday that he supports giving Alabama voters the right to decide whether to allow a statewide lottery. Harwell is running to represent Senate District 34.
“I am running to represent my constituents, not rule over them, and I trust the people of Alabama to decide the issue of the lottery once and for all,” Harwell said. “During this campaign, I have spent countless hours talking to voters, and one thing is clear: They want the right to vote on gaming.”
Harwell said voters want a say on the issue regardless of whether they support or oppose a lottery or other forms of gaming.
“Most people are sick of the political games in Montgomery,” Harwell said. “It is past time that the people’s representatives listen to the people and give them the right to vote.”
Harwell said Alabamians should be able to vote on each form of gaming separately and that any proposal placed before voters should put Alabama first.
“Right now, Alabamians need tax relief,” Harwell said. “We need more funding for schools and roads. I define a good proposal as one that addresses those issues.”
Harwell, a lifelong South Alabamian, graduated from the University of Mobile in 2000. In 2010, he started Harwell and Company, which has grown from four employees to more than 40 and now operates across Alabama, Mississippi and Florida.
“Gaming is already here,” Harwell said. “Our communities are already being affected, but we have no consumer protections. The status quo is a losing proposition for everyone.
“Alabamians are asking for the right to vote, and as your state senator, I will always listen to the people.”
Harwell said his campaign has focused on safer communities, lower taxes, better roads and an education system that prepares every student for a career.
