FOLEY — Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth spoke Tuesday at the South Baldwin Republican Women's lunch in Foley. Ainsworth outlined his priorities for the state and spoke specifically about what Baldwin County needs.
"We want to keep Alabama conservative," said Ainsworth. "We're going to fight for our traditional, Christian values."
A recent controversy in libraries across the state has Ainsworth concerned. He said he would stand behind lawmakers who want to stop libraries from offering inappropriate reading material to children and teens. Just this week, Foley's library director and city leaders came under fire by concerned citizens speaking against what they call pornography.
Ainsworth told 1819 News that it’s not the place of a library or a school to teach children about sexual activity.
“I think as a parent, it is our responsibility to protect children from anything that’s sexually driven or anything that has any type of agenda that could negatively impact children,” Ainsworth said. “And so, it’s our job as elected officials to keep that out of our libraries, to keep that out of our schools. We need to look at all the different options we have as a state, whether that’s legislatively and make sure we get that enacted because I want to protect my children and everyone’s children in Alabama.”
Ainsworth said he appreciates those fighting against "woke policy" and pushing back against issues such as boys playing in girls' sports.
"It is shocking the things I have to talk to my kids about," Ainsworth added.
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With around 8 million people visiting Alabama beaches, Ainsworth said roads are a priority.
"We have done infrastructure wrong for a long time," he said. "And the greatest need is in Baldwin County."
He said Interstates 65 and 10 are lifelines to get people to the beach and that leaders must base projects on needs, not politics.
"We are failing if we do not have adequate infrastructure to get them here," he continued.
Other areas Ainsworth touched on were the Port of Mobile, school choice, grocery tax cuts, military needs, the aerospace industry and workforce development.
"I don't expect to be in politics forever; one day, I will be glad to be on this side with you," said Ainsworth. "But for now, I am going to work hard for our state."
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
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