On Wednesday's episode of Talk 99.5 FM's "Leland Live," guest-host Apryl Marie Fogel of 1819 News was joined by Republican State Senate nominee Scott Ortis for a wide-ranging discussion on multiple legislative topics, including gambling in Alabama and the state grocery tax.
Ortis told Fogel he expects Alabama's likely next governor, U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn), to hit the ground running on gambling issues after taking office.
"I think it's going to be fast and furious, from what I understand. It's going to be interesting that we have new blood in there who are ready to tackle some of these issues," said Ortis. "I think he's going to bring in some controversial things that have just sort of been put on the back burner or side burner, because people do not want to address them. People like me, I want to come in and let's attack it, let's see where the chips fall on that."
According to Ortis, public opinion is shifting on the possibility of legalized gambling in Alabama.
"From what I'm understanding now, the numbers have changed. I had a lady tell me one time, if you want to bring it to the voters, I'm not going to vote for you. Look, it's democracy. That's what we do. It's the will of the people," he added.
Ortis criticized Alabama's 2% statewide grocery tax, arguing it primarily affects the "working poor."
"It's been reduced to about half. I would like to see it go away. There are 39 states that do not have a grocery tax. We're one of 11. Even by cutting it in half, I think we're still number one or two of those 11 with the highest statewide grocery tax," explained Ortis. "To be honest with you, it's a tax on the working poor. The people who are really struggling. If you're on SNAP benefits, you're not paying for it. If you're wealthier, the couple percent of state tax probably doesn't affect you a whole lot, but I think it's really hitting the working poor."
"That's something I would love to see addressed early on," he added.
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