Randy Bridges

Randy Bridges was born in Paducah, Kentucky. Bridges' career experience includes working as a real estate developer, broker, and owner of Remax Realty Group. He has been a member of National Association of Realtors, the Paducah Board of Realtors, Heartland Church, the Rotary Club of Paducah, the Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce, Kentucky Realtors, and the National Association of Christian Lawmakers.[1][2]

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am proud to call Paduch/McCracken County home since birth. I have been married to my wife, Carla for 44+ years. We raised our two wonderful children in Paducah, where we attended school and church, and own and operate businesses. As a Real Estate Broker/Developer and small business owner, I understand our area’s unique qualities. As a 3-term incumbent, I have the knowledge, experience, understanding, and equity to continue moving McCracken and Livingston Counties forward. In my first announcement to run for office several years ago, I committed to focus on these areas: 1) Address our pension crisis 2) Tax reform 3) Use all the assets that our community has to offer including proximity to river, roads, and rails; along with our extensive skilled labor pool, and one of the best community colleges and top chamber of commerce in the nation. Since that time, there has been record funding placed in our pension systems to stabilize them so that we can give confidence to our teachers and other state employees for their future. Income tax has been lowered from 5% to 4% and with the most recent trigger being met we will see an even lower rate in 2025. This has brought about record growth and put Kentucky back on the map for businesses and industry. By focusing on our area's assets there has been historic funding placed into our local infrastructure system along with new funding for an airline mechanic's school at WKCTCS.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Proven experience and proven results with record investments brought to our area to strengthen our local communities.Commitment to continue lowering our state income tax to keep more

hard-earned money in the pockets of our working Kentuckians and growing our economy.Serving in leadership as the Chairman of local government brings a level of influence and equity that will allow me to continue to bring measures that significantly impact our communities in a positive manner.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Increasing our Workforce through investing in workforce development programs, seeking ways to produce additional housing to address our housing crisis, and exploring measures to bring attention to our area by promoting policies that will make it easier for companies to locate in our Commonwealth.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

It would have to be my parents and my in-laws. They both came from poor humble backgrounds and taught their children that no matter what your beginning were that if you were willing to work hard and apply yourself you could do and be anything you set your mind to.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

My parents taught me to look to holy scripture for guidance and authority. I believe it best to love your neighbor as yourself and treat others the way you desire to be treated.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Honesty and integrity. We may not always agree but I commit to be honest and when necessary, agree to disagree and strive to focus on what we have in common so that we continue to work in unison to make our community a better place to live, work, and enjoy life.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

The willingness to serve others with the patience and determination to accept setbacks without giving up. Understanding compromise and negotiating to get to an acceptable "yes". 70-80% is better than nothing and be willing to come back to the issue to seek the other 20-30% at more opportune time.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

To provide for the needs of our community and make decisions that are not only best for our local community but also best for our Commonwealth.

What legacy would you like to leave?

To be remembered as a person that left the world in a better place than I found it.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

I was only 2 years old and actually didn't witness it, but the assassination of JFK was the most prominent topic up until I was in early elementary school.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

I started to work for my dad when I was 12 years old in his plumbing business. During the summers I left at 6 AM each morning with him and got home when he got home. If he worked weekends I worked weekends. There were many 12 hours days. My job was to packed tools to the men on the job sites, keep his trucks cleaned and loaded, and make sure his shop was also clean and orderly. I jokingly tell him now that he could have been charged with child abuse according to current statutes. It was long hot days that at the time seemed endless. Looking back, I wouldn't change a thing. I learned so much that you couldn't in a classroom. I realized how hard both my parents worked to provide for me and my siblings. It displayed their love for us and what they were willing to sacrifice for our benefit.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Not having a college education. I feel that I am the least qualified person in Frankfort. I work with so many brilliant and talented individuals that have extensive educations, Doctors, Attorneys, and professionals from a wide variety of fields. At the end of the day all I can do is my best and be honest with others and myself.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

The ideal relationship would be where the Governor was willing to communicate freely with the legislative branch and other executive branches.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Meeting the demands of our economic growth such as infrastructure and housing.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

It can be, but not a must. My experience from being a small business owner and previous involvement in church and community organizations has been a tremendous asset.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

Absolutely, as relationships grow so does a person's trust, influence and equity.

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

Several come to mind. A few of them would be Reagan, Bush, and Pence. All had a firm self-confidence weighted with grace and humility.

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

Only if needed. My ambition is to serve where I have the ability to make our community and Commonwealth a better place, whether that would be at the local, state, or federal levels.

Both sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

While visiting a local restaurant after a particularly difficult week in Frankfort, I felt a small tap on my shoulder and a small voice say, "Mr. Bridges?" I turned to face an elderly lady that I didn't recognize. She told me that she prayed for me every day. This stopped me in my tracks. She continued to explain that her husband had passed away a few years ago and their affairs were not in order. Her assets had been frozen, including medical benefits and prescriptions. She said she contacted me and in just a few days a lady called her and was able to get everything back on track. Her gesture reminded me that of all the big things we work on in Frankfort, it's the small things that matter most. Her kind words helped me realize the importance of what I am doing and gives me the encouragement to continue.

Should the legislature oversee or grant the use of emergency powers?

I believe they should. During the pandemic, we had one person who acted without legislative input and operated as a dictator instead of a team player. Legislators know their areas and their specific needs. A one size fits all approach didn't work well in this situation.

What is the first bill you would introduce if elected?

I've introduced and passed numerous bills. However, I have received the most satisfaction in a number of resolutions I wrote and sponsored that produced four special task forces which will affect the commonwealth for decades to come. The first was a PVA task force that resulted in a statute that closed loopholes preventing big chain companies from lowering their property values, thus reducing revenues that support out schools and local services. A Multi-Modal task force for supply chain issues was instrumental in funding for riverports, airports, trucking terminals, and rail freight. An annexation task force was developed that brought about measures that balance the power between cities and counties. Currently I am a member of the Kentucky housing task force. We are seeking measures to increase our housing inventory and addressing the housing crisis.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Kentucky Chamber of Commerce,

What committees interest you?

I am fortunate to be on the committees I'm most passionate about.

Chairman House Standing Committe on Local Government

House Standing Committe on Transportation

House Standing Committe on Natural Resources & Energy

Budget Review Committee on General Government

Administrative Regulatory Sub Review Statutory Committe

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Transparency in the key for everyone to have confidence in our state's financial security. However, there are times when confidentiality is required in very unique circumstances. For example, when our economic team is working with companies on new projects and the company's proprietary information cannot be disclosed.

Would a state ballot initiative process be good or bad for your state?

I have reservations concerning ballot initiatives. We already have elections and voter turnout is very weak. If we could get registered voters to the polls, I would have to question if ballot initiatives would be needed.

Randy Bridges did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2022 Candidate Connection survey.

Randy Bridges did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2020 Candidate Connection survey.

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What would be your top three priorities, if elected?

1. Comprehensive Tax reform to promote economic growth

2. Supporting Education to promote Workforce Development and to address the drug and alcohol abuse systemic in our state.

3.Create a balanced budget based on revenues received and eliminating wasteful government spending.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Economic growth

Drug policies

Traditional family values and sanctity of life

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

First and foremost Jesus. His example of self sacrifice and serving others can't be argued with. As far as a political figure I would say President Ronald Reagan. He always looked for the best interest of all involved and willing to make the hard decisions needed to move our government forward.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

The constitution.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Honesty, Integrity, and Transparency.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

Being a successful small business owner for over 30 years, creating jobs, and handling budgets has given me the experience to understand both the duty and needs to serve in this capacity. Also serving on many civic boards, as a leader in my church, and as a leader in professional organizations has given me the ability to make the best decisions for the good of all involved even when faced with opposing views.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

To put the communities best interest before your personal interest and to follow the intent of the Preamble to our great constitution by establishing and promoting justice, insuring domestic tranquility, providing for common defense and protection, promoting general welfare and securing Liberty and prosperity for all.

What legacy would you like to leave?

To be known as a true "Statesman" by leaving things better than I received them.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

The Vietnam war. I had several family members and friends of family that served over seas and remember the agony many suffered. As a young child I didn't fully understand all that was happening at the time but the most memorable experience is when an uncle was reported missing and considered lost. After several weeks we found out the he had been seriously injured, was was alive, and coming home. It resonated in me the actual price that had been and continues to be paid for our freedom and how precious that freedom is.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

I started working for my dad in his plumbing business at the age of 12, packing tools, cleaning his shop, and organizing his work vans. At the time I thought it to be unfair since most of my friends were enjoying their summer having fun. Now years later I appreciate the work ethic my parents instilled in me. I really can't remember a time when I didn't have a job. The self confidence, self worth and feeling of responsibility instilled in me at a young age has been invaluable.

What happened on your most awkward date?

My mother always told me to be mindful of my dates, to be courteous, compliment them, to open doors for them, and always be a gentleman. I remember on one of my first dates I was busy doing all this and the girl I was out with hated everything I tried. Finally she told me she didn't need someone doing these things for her. I was really confused.

What is your favorite holiday? Why?

Thanksgiving. Different from most holidays it's a time to reflect on all the blessings we have along with a gentle reminder not to take these blessings for granted. Being involved in Mission work and traveling to many parts of the world and even through out our state I have come to realize how blessed our country and communities are.

What is your favorite book? Why?

The Bible. My favorite description for it is "Living Word". I feel that when we put it's teaching to work in our lives it becomes alive through our actions of obedience.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

I would consider myself a realist so I would rather model my life after someone that has actually made a difference to society. Someone like Martin Luther King, Jr. or Nathan Hale.

What is your favorite thing in your home or apartment? Why?

I have a room at home where I keep notable things I have been given through out the years. My most memorable is a family bible my father in law had. It's falling apart and I have had to tie a string around it to keep it together. I wish I had the ability to see the many hours spent studying and learning from each individual that has used it.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

It's not an actual song but it's my grandchildren saying their nightly prayers. "Now I lay me down to sleep....."

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Probably low self esteem. My biggest regret is not having a college education. I can remember starting my first business and when dealing with accountants, bankers, attorneys, and others I always felt embarrassed when they would start talking about where they went to school. There would was always the time in the conversation where I would have to say "I didn't go to college." I guess that's why I insisted my wife and children get a degree and why I'm so interested in our education system.

Every state besides Nebraska has two legislative chambers. What do you consider the most important differences between the legislative chambers in your state?

The house chamber is only a 2 year term and has a much smaller district. It has a smaller district and a more personal community interest than the senate that has a larger district with a broader area so it has more diverse needs to address .

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

No, I feel our government is for everyone and needs a wide variety of experience from all areas. I believe term limits should be given serious consideration. While experience in legislation can be a benefit it can also be a hindrance. We must always look for fresh new ideas and make every effort not to allow ourselves to be content when it comes to moving our state forward.

What do you perceive to be your state’s greatest challenges over the next decade?

Developing economic growth strategies to keep up with surrounding states and addressing our pension crisis. I believe that addressing the first will help fund the second.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature?

One where each works independently toward common goals willing to consider each others values and opinions and bring varying solutions to the table. I welcome diverse input so long as it isn't a personal agenda and is aimed for the good for all concerned.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

Absolutely. Building relationships is at the core of understanding one another and gives us a basic foundation to work from. When we can understand one's perspective it often lessens preconceived thoughts and lowers one's defensive attitude.

What process do you favor for redistricting?

For years I believe it's been used for political gain. I feel there should be a process put into place that will show consideration for population, better voter understanding and convenience, along with a balance of party lines. Districts have become so confusing and convoluted over the years that voters have a hard time understanding who they are represented by.

If you are not a current legislator, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of?

Economic Development and Workforce investment

Education

Local Government

Transportation

Small Business & Information Technology

If you are not currently a member of your party’s leadership in the legislature, would you be interested in joining the leadership? If so, in what role?

If elected I feel it would take a while to consider this possibility. At this time it would be as a committee leader.

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

Probably past Kentucky State Senator Leeper. He demonstrated his desire to follow his convictions over any outside influences.

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

My current interest is what is best for our community and what office would be the most beneficial. At this time I have not considered this question. If I had to answer it would be no.

Both sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

I have heard several but the most memorable was from a person that couldn't get a government medical benefit addressed. Just being a candidate and having the ability to connect this person with the right agency was an affirmation that I could make a difference in someone's life.

In a press release, Bridges stated:

I pledge to stand strong for the people I hope to serve. I promise to work diligently and do the right thing for the voters. I have decided to enter the race for the Kentucky House of Representatives in order to make a positive difference. My goal is to bring jobs, opportunity and new hope for the people of western Kentucky. I am pro-growth, pro-jobs, pro-life, pro-guns, and pro-family. Join me and together we can build a stronger district and more dynamic Commonwealth.[6][7]