Editor’s note: The following questionnaire was sent to Republican State Senate candidates who qualified to appear on the June 5 primary ballot. The News Courier sent questionnaires to all candidates who have opposition in the primary and will run candidates’ responses each Wednesday and Saturday leading up to the primary. Responses have been checked for spelling, but they otherwise appear as we received them. Campaign finance reports for those candidates will also be published as space allows.

• Name: Steve Smith

• Age: 50

• Hometown: Nashville, TN

• Current city of residence: Madison, AL

• Occupation: Small business owner

• Education: BS Business Administration/BS Computer Information Systems

• Personal: Spouse, Mickie, sons, Spencer and Chandler

• Seat/position you are seeking: State Senate District 2

• Previous political experience: Currently serving second term on Madison City Council

• What do you see as the three biggest challenges facing the State Legislature? Please state how you, as a state senator, could help the Legislature overcome those challenges. Please be concise, but specific:

I think first and foremost, our State Legislature needs to start working together for the sake of our State. We need leadership that brings people together. If we truly want to make Alabama a great place to live, work, and raise a family, we must work together to address our budget, our roads, and our schools. I’ve been a part of a great team in Madison City. We’ve been able to put aside personal agendas and work as a team and the results have been tremendous. I don’t know why our State cannot have the same success.

• Please explain what relevant experience you have in terms of the elected position you are seeking. Please give specific examples of how that relevant experience would make you the ideal person for the job:

I am currently serving my second term on Madison City Council. I am the only candidate on either ballot that has been waking up every day for the past 6 years working to make our community the best it can be. I’ve been working with both Limestone and Madison County Commissioners, the Chairmen and State Legislatures to make sure North Alabama is successful and moving forward. I know the support our local elected officials need to be successful and I know as a State Senator, I need to support their efforts.

• As a lawmaker, you will be approached by numerous lobbyists and special interest groups willing to offer special favors in exchange for your vote. What steps will you take to ensure transparency and compliance with existing ethics laws?

As a Councilman, I made a pledge to obey all laws and the Constitution of the State of Alabama. My role as a Senator is the same as a Councilman and that is to gather as much information as possible and make the best decision to move our State forward. It has taken a lifetime to build my witness and reputation and I am not going to put them or the trust my family, friends, and constituents have placed in me at risk over a temporary benefit. I have been transparent and complied with existing ethic laws as a Councilman and will continue to do so.

• As a member of Limestone County’s legislative delegation, what assurances can you give voters that our needs will always be a priority in Montgomery?

My purpose as an elected official is to represent the values and interest of those who elected me.

Limestone County wants a true Republican that fears God, is fiscally responsible, and makes sound judgements. I will continue to be a part of our community and listening to constituents in order to help our tax dollars bring value to North Alabama.

• Please explain whether you will be willing to work with lawmakers who do not share your political party affiliation or political views. Will you place a higher value on political ideals or the desires of your constituents?

My number one calling as an elected official is making sound decisions that bring value. I have no aspirations to be a lifelong politician. I am always willing to work with whomever I need to in order to get solid regulations and policy in place.

• Please explain why voters should consider you over your opponents:

I feel I’m the best candidate for several different reasons. I am the only lifelong Republican on the ballot. That in itself doesn’t qualify me but it shows I stick with my values regardless of which party has momentum. I am fiscally conservative which has helped me work with others in helping to strengthen the City of Madison’s financial position. As stated earlier, I’ve been waking up for 6 years and dealing with issues such as budgets, roads, schools, and quality of life on a daily basis. I’ve worked closely with other elected officials to help bring opportunities to our community and I want to continue to do so in Montgomery. I want to ensure District 2 sends a Senator that is in touch with today’s community and can stand for our rights and values and ensure our tax dollars are spent wisely to bring value to each and every person that lives in our District. I will serve with honor and dignity and I humbly ask for your vote.