[Sidebar] The Worcester Phoenix
September 15 - 22, 2000

[Features]

Harriett Lebow
State Rep, 13th District

Questions Answers
1. Many people believe the state legislature remains in the grip of the lobbyist-funded leadership, and that the local delegation is forced to march in lockstep with the leadership's whim. As a legislator, how will you combat this perception?
 I am not a career politician. I will work with the leadership when it benefits my constituents; I will align myself with like-minded legislators and build alliances based on a regional perspective, as well as working with urban centers such a Lowell and Springfield to make sure we get needed resources.
2. The use of term limits appeals to some as a way to block individuals from choosing politics as a career, and to reduce stagnation in the legislature. Do you support or oppose term limits, and why?
 I believe that campaign-finance reform is a better way to reduce stagnation in the legislature.
3. By providing public matching funds for candidates, a Clean Elections Law is meant to reduce soft-money contributions and diminish corporate influence in the political process. Do you support or oppose a Clean Elections Law, and why?
 Yes, I support the Clean Elections Law as a means of diversifying the legislature. I challenged my opponents to show leadership in this area by operating this campaign within the spirit of the law. They declined.
4. Earlier this year, the state legislature passed a Patients' Bill of Rights in response to a ballot initiative. Do you support the terms of the initiative, and is the legislation enough to address patients' needs?
 Yes, I support the original ballot referendum. The current Patients' Bill of Right's does not go far enough, and the reforms that were made have not moved us any closer to universal health coverage.
5. One of the biggest concerns of senior voters is prescription-drug coverage. What role, in your opinion, should state government play in providing these drugs?
 I support the state playing a role in prescription-drug coverage for the elderly, most likely as a bulk purchaser and distributor of medications at a reduced rate. I would like to see collaboration with the other New England states in a bulk purchasing plan.
6. Recent figures released by Massport indicate higher passenger counts at Worcester Airport. In light of this, you would expect the already heated debate over the proposed access road to the airport will only intensify. What is your position on the access road?
 I do not support the access road as proposed.
7. School vouchers would allow parents to use public-education funds to pay for a private education for their children. Do you support or oppose school vouchers, and why?
 I support school choice, but oppose school vouchers. Public education is the foundation of our economy and democracy, and reforms need to be made within the system.
8. Often, much-needed programs can't find funding from city government. As a state legislator, what specific revenue sources will you seek to exploit for the needs of the district?
 There are many sources of state revenue that could be used to support local programs. Local aid and the foundation budget for education, are among the largest and must be scrutinized for their fairness to this district, along with economic development, cultural, and social-service funding. Proposed tax-cut initiatives would diminish our ability to attract local funds.
9. MCAS educational testing is on everyone's mind these days. Is the current system fair and worthwhile?
 I support MCAS testing, recognizing that the test is young, and needs fine-tuning. We must make every accommodation to assist failing student, and devise appropriate testing measures for special-needs and vocational students.
10. Are you in favor of, or do you oppose capital punishment. Why?
 I oppose capital punishment because it is unfairly administered and too many innocent people are on death row. I would not be willing to put another individual to death, and would not ask someone else to do what I would not do.
11. On the issue of abortion, are you pro-abortion, or anti-abortion, and why?
 Pro-choice. Choice is a personal philosophy and a political position. It is, above all, a commitment to equality. I believe that reproductive rights are fundamental to achieving political, economic, and social equality.
12. List your top three priorities upon taking office, in order of importance.
Health-care.

Education.

Environmentally responsible growth.
13. What's your idea of a fun night out in the district?
 A sunset picnic with my family at Moore State Park in Paxton, catered by the Corner Grille. We would end the evening with a visit to Claytime to paint tiles.
14. Why should people vote for you?
 I am the candidate for voters who are looking for an independent thinker with a progressive voice. As a mother, teacher, and small-business owner I have a unique perspective of this community -- one that I will use to work with diverse groups to get things done.


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