State Rep. Beth Harwell spoke to a crowd of over 40 people Wednesday, Nov. 19, expressing her optimistic outlook for Tenn. Republicans in the upcoming elections.

The informal gathering took place at Watkins Auditorium in the UC. UTM students, faculty, and local dignitaries were in attendance.

Rep. Harwell spoke briefly on the goals for the Republican Party for the 2004 Election. Goals of the party include Bush winning the majority vote in Tenn. for the second time and making significant gains in Tenn. Legislature.

Rep. Harwell also predicted that Democrats will make attacks on Republicans as the election draws nearer. She feels Democrats will downplay President Bush’s role in international affairs. Also, she predicted Democrats will be critical of Bush regarding the economy.

Harwell expressed her feelings about President Bush. “The number one goal of the homeland is to protect…we have a leader that understands this” Harwell said. She also feels we are fortunate to have a President that knows the difference between right and wrong.

Beth Harwell is Chairman of the Tenn. Republicans, Representative of the 56th District, and serves on the House Education Committee of the Tenn. General Assembly.