Leadership, a word defined by Webster’s as, “the capacity to lead,” but leadership is much more than just a word with a dictionary definition. Leadership involves decision-making, delegation, and execution. It is rarely easy and only those with strong foundational principles truly rise to provide effective leadership.

Over the past two legislative sessions, the Republican Party has been providing effective leadership in the state of Tennessee. We have always maintained that “it matters who governs,” and the results from Republican leadership in the Tennessee General Assembly demonstrate that to be a truism. Simply look at what we have accomplished. The list is too long for the purposes of this article, so I will highlight just a few which are not just positive changes to how our state functions- they are transformational.

Education Reform- Led by a Republican Governor, Republican Senate, and Republican House of Representatives, education in Tennessee is moving in a direction that will transform our educational system. Say goodbye to the status quo. We are in a new era of education, and Republicans are challenging the “old guard” with creative and innovative ideas. Of course not everyone likes change, but leadership isn’t about taking the easy path; rather, leadership is about having a vision of what “can be” and then executing a plan to make it “reality.”

Economic Development-Republicans in Tennessee reject the notion that we should be second best to anyone. To the contrary, we envision a state that is a leader in job retention, job growth, economic development, and innovation. Why should we expect anything less? For too long we have allowed Tennessee to be mediocre. No more! Under Republican leadership, Tennessee is now ranked as one of the best states to do business in and you can expect us to continue to push for reforms that will only strengthen our position.

State Government- Republicans continue to look at ways to make state government more lean, more efficient, and more effective. We have eliminated old and outdated governmental entities and worked to streamline long-held governmental bureaucracies. This is a goal that is being accomplished without much fanfare or media attention, but over time citizens will begin to realize that their state government works better, and understands who works for whom.

Budget- Managing a state during a recession is tough business. It requires difficult decisions and a realization that you can’t spend more than you make. Sure we’ve had a Democratic governor during some of this time, but budgets come through the legislative process and Republicans have held the line on state spending. Now that we have a Republican governor you can even more clearly see the effects of these conservative practices with this year’s $1.8 billion reduction in state spending. At the same time, we added money to our state’s savings account, the “rainy day fund.” That’s good fiscal policy and is a key reason why Tennessee is ranked as one of the best financially managed states in the country.

I could go on, but I think you get the point- it does matter who governs!

There are many challenges yet before us and it will not be easy, but Republicans are committed to making Tennessee not just better, but the best state to live, work, worship, and play. We look forward to working with you as we continue to make our vision a reality.

Senator Bo Watson, Speaker Pro Tempore
Chairman, Hamilton County Delegation