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The Associated Press
January 8, 2002

   Gov. Don Siegelman’s comments on constitutional revision during the last two years:

   “It’s healthy and productive to talk about iniquities and antiquities. But for those who want to talk about tax reform or constitutional reform as a way to sneak up on taxpayers and raise their taxes, that’s not going to happen.” — Siegelman talking to reporters shortly before the first constitutional revision rally April 7, 2000, in Tuscaloosa.

   “This is something that’s got to bubble up from the grass roots. You’ve got to convince the public, who can then convince the Legislature.” — Siegelman speaking June 13, 2000, about why he was not leading the call for a new constitution.

   “I do applaud those people who want to spend their time talking about constitutional reform, but I’m going to stay focused on those things I know I can get done that will benefit the people of Alabama.” — Siegelman telling reporters Feb. 6, 2001, why he didn’t mention the constitution in his third State of the State speech.

   “We must change the way government works for the sake of our children’s education. If not, then Alabama’s wagon will continue to get stuck in the same old ruts.” — Siegelman speaking at a constitutional reform rally April 4, 2001, in Montgomery.

   “I will fight to reform our constitution, take power away from the special interests, and give it back to the people. The people and I will fight because we are right, and the special interests are wrong.” — Siegelman in his fourth State of the State speech Tuesday night.

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