What’s on your ballot?

This election cycle, several major pieces of legislation are up for a state-wide vote. The University of Tennessee College Democrat President and junior in economics Mitchell Thompson and former College Republican President and senior in political science Brandon Chrisman agreed to give their input on the amendments up for a vote on the midterm elections on Nov. 4 in order to help students become a little more aware before they cast their ballots.

Amendment 1: Changes to Abortion Laws

Amendment 1 inserts constitutional language that gives legislature the power to enact, amend or repeal statutes regarding abortion.

Thompson (Democrat):

Alongside his party, Thompson stands behind the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision which forbids state legislatures from issuing any statutes that deny the right to abortion. Thompson said he views the proposed amendment as a step in the wrong direction.

“It’s an attack on a constitutionally protected right,” Thompson said. “It’s essentially removing a protection for women to have a safe procedure in the state of Tennessee.”

Specifically, Thompson views the wording of the measure as “intentionally confusing,” as it will effectively take away a woman’s right to abortion, even in extreme cases of rape or incest.

Chrisman (Republican):

In line with the Republican Party, Chrisman believes an extension of the state’s power over abortions is a necessity.

“Right now the legislature can’t do anything,” Chrisman said, citing the opposition’s “misinformation” that the measure will ban abortions as completely untrue. “We at least want these (abortion clinics) to be regulated … We want to make sure that they’re safe, at the very least, and they’re following all the proper and appropriate health procedures.”

Amendment 2: Judge Selection Process

Amendment 2 gives the governor the power to appoint judges for the Tennessee Supreme Court, subject to confirmation by the

general assembly.

Thompson (D):

While Tennessee Democrats have no official stance, Thompson said he personally supports the measure.

“The way our Constitution is written, appellate court judges could be in the near future voted on by the general populace,” Thompson said. “Amendment 2 was written to prevent that from happening and turn it into what our federal government does.”

Chrisman (R):

Admitting that the Republican party is split on the issue, Chrisman sees yes on 2 as “the lesser of two evils.” Expressing a desire to avoid possible statewide elections for Supreme Court elections, Brandon regrets not being able to keep the system as it is.

“I wish we could keep it the way it is, but we just can’t based on our constitution,” Chrisman said.

Amendment 3: State Income Tax

Amendment 3 prohibits the legislature from levying or permitting any tax upon payroll or earned personal income.

Thompson (D):

Speaking apart from his party, Thompson said he opposes Amendment 3, viewing it as “unnecessary” and potentially damaging should the state ever need additional revenue.

“An increase in the sales tax predominantly hurts the underprivileged,” Thompson explained. “With passing Amendment 3 and not allowing an income tax ever, it ties our hands and forces us only to be able to raise the sales tax, which is a seriously regressive tax form and would hurt the impoverished.”

Chrisman (R):

Chrisman sees Amendment 3 as solidifying successful practices that have made the state economically sound, citing Tennessee’s lowest debt ratio in the country as evidence to that effect.

“We’ve done fine without it,” Chrisman said. “Industries are coming to Tennessee and relocating, and a large part of that is that we don’t have an income tax.”

Amendment 4: Gambling & Charities

Amendment 4 gives the legislature the power to permit lotteries for events that benefit specified organizations, like non-profit and veteran organizations.

Thompson (D):

Again choosing not to speak for all state Democrats, Thompson said he views the measure as somewhat straightforward.

“Some of our feelings towards gambling need to change,” Thompson said. “If (gambling) is going to be for the purpose of charity … I am in favor of it.”

Chrisman (R):

Against the party current, Chrisman said he plans to vote no on 4, citing fears that veteran organizations will abuse their new found right to gamble.

“I’m just skeptical based on the history,” Brandon said, referencing the original 1978 bill that sought to prohibit veteran organizations from embezzling money earned from gambling. “I think that these organizations have survived without it (gambling) and I’m skeptical to open the door back up to Pandora’s box.”