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I'm, you know, having begun my public service in state government. I very much respect the authority of states to make the decisions to provide for its citizen - the safety and welfare of its citizens.

I believe in small government and people taking care of themselves.

We have to allow people in the states to make their own decisions, to get government agencies out of the way and let local people make decisions about what's best for them.

You have the biggest impact on controlling, on affecting local lives as mayor. It's so much more important than being a state legislator.

As a former mayor, I know that local governments must have control over land use decisions.

I may not be the world's best glad-handing politician, but I've been elected mayor twice. I understand politics. And I definitely understand where the state line is.

I fully understand the expectations of the state governments. Thus, I am better placed to work closely with the chief ministers.

My concept of government's role in people's lives is that it is limited but legitimate, and essential when people have nowhere else to turn.

I actually don't believe in big government, and half the time I'm never quite sure I believe in government, generally.

I have confidence in the responsibility of those who occupy a seat in the legislature.