Tennessee Senate District 30: Read our Q&A with Democratic primary candidates
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Early voting is underway and two Democrats are vying for the Tennessee Senate District 30 seat ― Incumbent Sara Kyle and Erika Stotts Pearson.
No candidates qualified for the Republican primary, but the winner of the Democratic primary will face one Independent in November.
Early voting will run through July 27, with election day on Aug. 1.
The Commercial Appeal reached out to both Kyle and Pearson and asked a series of questions to inform voters. Candidate responses have been put in the order they will appear on the ballot.
Some edits have been made to responses for formatting and clarity.
Sara Kyle, incumbent
Q: What is your background and any experience relevant to this elected office?
A: I came out of college and was a teacher. Taught elementary school for a year, then I went to work on Capitol Hill for my aunt, who's in State Senate, and during that time, I went to law school at night, married Jim Coll and moved down here, and I practiced law, and then was elected city court judge. I was there for two years before I ran statewide at that time, it was called the Public Service Commission...I did that about 19 years and then 10 years ago, I ran for the Senate and won. I've been there 10 years.
Q: Why are you running for this position?
A: Well, it's just been my commitment. I come from... the family that I'm married into, a family that is always been involved in civic and public service, and those have been my path in life. Not only do I enjoy people and working with them, but working together with them to get things accomplished that will strengthen our quality of living. So I'm looking forward, and hopefully, I will get reelected to this position.
Q: What issues are the most important to your constituents?
A: The economy, fighting for a living wage and women's health care are very important, and then help the criminal activity, I would like to say a fourth one. I'm very much opposed to vouchers. I do not think we should take public monies and put it in schools that are established by corporations. You know, because corporations, their bottom line is to make money, and I just really think if you stay in the lane of public education, the child gets the attention. But I find that vouchers would drain the resources these public schools need, and we're not giving a fair chance to each and every child. So, I will continue to keep my own hoping that vouchers (do) not come back up, that these corporate schools to which vouchers would be paid will not, will not be established.
Q: How will you work to address the major issues impacting your constituents?
A: I've always fought for responsible gun ownership, not taking away anybody's second amendment rights, but responsible gun ownership, training, storage of these weapons, I will continue to fight for a minimum wage... and I think we could work on it for living wage, which I think is about $24 an hour. Now, I will continue to fight for programs that will address issues around the criminal activities in our town, city and state, but I'm very much committed to rights. People need to have their own rights, and they don't need to be taken away from them, such as access to women's health care, and access to free and well-funded public schools. So these are issues that I personally work on. I think you see the Democrat Party working on these issues, and we stand united, and I'm very appreciative. So I guess I would just have to say I'm ready for reelection, and continue to support these causes in my platform.
Q: What would three of your top priorities be for your district if elected?
A: Public safety, women's rights and the economy/increase in minimum wage.
Erika Stotts Pearson
Q: What is your background and any experience relevant to this elected office?
A: I am Erika Stotts Pearson, and I have dedicated my life to serving the community of Memphis, Tennessee. I have extensive experience in advocating for the rights and well-being of our citizens, particularly focusing on education, healthcare, and women's empowerment. My background includes working closely with local organizations to address community needs and championing initiatives that enhance the quality of life for our residents. My commitment to public service and my hands-on experience in tackling issues like healthcare access, affordable housing, and social services have equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively represent District 30 in the Tennessee State Senate.
Q: Why are you running for this position?
A: I am running for the Tennessee State Senate for District 30 because I believe in the power of community and the importance of representation that truly understands and addresses the needs of its people. I have seen firsthand the challenges that our residents face, from healthcare disparities to economic inequalities. My passion for making a positive impact and my deep-rooted connection to this community drive me to seek this office. I want to ensure that every voice in District 30 is heard and that we create a safer, stronger, and more vibrant community for all.
Q: What issues are the most important to your constituents?
A: The most important issues to my constituents include access to quality healthcare, affordable housing, women's rights, economic growth, and support for senior citizens. These concerns are central to the well-being and prosperity of our community, and addressing them is crucial for creating a better future for all residents of District 30.
Q: How will you work to address the major issues impacting your constituents?
A: To address the major issues impacting my constituents, I will implement a comprehensive plan that includes:
Enhancing Healthcare: I will advocate for increased funding for Medicare and Medicaid, expand community health centers, and introduce mobile health clinics to ensure everyone has access to quality healthcare.
Affordable Housing: I will work with local developers and non-profit organizations to increase the availability of affordable housing and advocate for stronger tenant protections and property tax relief for senior homeowners.
Women's Rights: I will fight for reproductive freedom, equal pay, and protection against domestic violence. Additionally, I will support policies that provide women with access to quality healthcare, affordable childcare, and educational opportunities.
Economic Growth: I will promote small businesses, create job opportunities, and invest in education and vocational training programs to equip our workforce with the necessary skills.
Support for Seniors: I will expand access to affordable healthcare, housing, and social services for our elderly residents, ensuring they live with dignity and respect.
Q: What would three of your top priorities be for your district if elected?
A: If elected, three of my top priorities for District 30 would be:
Healthcare Access and Affordability: Ensuring that every resident has access to quality, affordable healthcare, including preventive care and mental health services.
Women's Empowerment: Championing women's rights and providing support through education, healthcare, and economic opportunities to ensure every woman can thrive.
Economic Development: Fostering economic growth by supporting small businesses, creating job opportunities, and investing in infrastructure and educational programs to build a prosperous and sustainable community.
This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Tennessee Senate District 30 Democratic primary candidates: What to know
