 ecently Houston Business Connections Newspaper asked Republican, Democratic, and Libertarian leaders to discuss the importance of leadership during times of crisis. We will be publishing their comments throughout 2009 as part of our “People Doing Business Series” as a way of saying thank you for their support. We also, asked both Democrat Chris Bell and Republican Joan Huffman (the two candidates in the runoff election to fill the seat left vacant by the resignation of Sen. Kyle Janek) to answer a few questions for our December 2008 edition.
Chris Bell E-Interview TAYLOR: Can you tell our readers and the constituents of State Senate District 17 why you're the best candidate to represent them without mentioning your opponent! BELL: I think the issues that I've addressed in my campaign demonstrate the kind of leadership I can bring to this district. People in Texas want to see real reform in the areas of public education, health care, college tuition, and ethics, and I am the only candidate who has been talking about these issues since the campaign began. My campaign has always been issue-based, and I haven't attempted to put up a smoke screen by drawing attention to divisive partisan issues that should take a backseat to the needs of our children. As a husband and father to two school-age boys, my wife and I are facing the same challenges we are all seeing in these tough economic times. We all want to see our children reach their full potential, but unless we address the problem of skyrocketing tuition, more and more families will be unable to see their children receive a college degree. As a legislator my focus will continue to remain on these issues that affect the everyday lives of those living within this district and across the state. TAYLOR: Do you have any personal experiences or qualifications you feel have uniquely prepared you to best represent State Senate District 17? BELL: I have been fortunate enough to serve the constituents of this district on two previous occasions as a Houston City Councilman and a United States Congressman. Working in two legislative bodies showed me the importance of knowing when and how to compromise with my colleagues. There are less than 30 days between Election Day and the beginning of the 2009 legislative session, and this district needs a state senator who can be ready for the challenges of the office on day one. My experiences in public office lend me the kind of preparedness that can bring real leadership to the constituents of District 17. TAYLOR: If you could say something positive about your opponent; what would you say? This question is optional. BELL: Candidate Chris Bell chose not to answer this question. | 
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