LETTER: Who is Hudgens really working for?

According to the Southern States Police Benevolent Association, Ralph Hudgens is a liar.

Responding to an inquiry about this alleged endorsement of Hudgens, in a letter dated Oct. 20, 2008, the organization’s executive director writes: “The local chapter board of directors are (sic.) responsible for screening candidates for state house and senate seats within their area. Unfortunately the chapter in your area (Senate 47th District) decided not to screen candidates this year.”

I did not check into the other items Hudgens listed in his ad, but this one lie about the PBA casts doubt on everything Hudgens says. Maybe that’s why, in that same advertisement, Hudgens decided not to tell readers about the sources of his campaign contributions.

According to the latest edition of The Flagpole, in their segment on “Follow the Money” — a listing of campaign contributions for candidates (who are required by law to disclose this information) — of the 58 contributors to Ralph Hudgens’ campaign for 2008, 30 of them are insurances companies, agencies or PACs. What a coincidence, considering Hudgens is the Insurance and Labor Committee Chairman. If you are an insurance company wanting to find support for introducing, supporting or opposing legislation that might affect your business, then Hudgens would be the most important person to have on your side.

Looking at what’s listed in “Follow the Money,” all contributors to Ralph Hudgens campaign are businesses, including Colonial Pipeline. Ask the COPS folks about Colonial Pipeline.

So, who do you think Ralph Hudgens is working for: The voters of the 47th Senate District? Or, the insurance companies that want to do business in Georgia and the business that need his support in the 47th district (in other words the people that pay to help get him elected)?

Actions speak louder than words. Don’t listen to what Ralph Hudgens says. Look at the way he votes and who gives him money, and if that disgusts you like it disgusts me, then remember that this year you have a choice: Vote for Tim Riley!

Sincerely,

Ed Gilmore

Carlton