Tennessee governor candidates sound off on guns, income tax & honesty

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — Tennessee gubernatorial candidates Republican Businessman Bill Lee and Democratic former Nashville Mayor Karl Dean answered viewer questions on FOX 17 News This Morning on Friday.

Each candidate had approximately two minutes to answer three questions:

Do you plan to make any changes to the Tennessee handgun carry laws? Or, are you going to work to repeal the law?

Bill Lee: Only changes would be to take away fees for permit carry.

"It’s a right, not a privilege."

Karl Dean: “No, I think one of the things that distinguishes me from my opponent Lee is that I don’t believe that we should have permit less carry. I think that we have a system in Tennessee that has worked where we call for permits to be issued for anyone who wants to carry a firearm. I think that’s the right way to go.

I also believe that we need to look at long term on how we can make people safe by keeping firearms out of the hands of dangerous people. People who have restraining orders, domestic violence issues, criminal records, mental illness. All those things I would be willing to look at."

Would you support a state income tax?

Bill Lee: "No, I wouldn’t."

Lee went on to say that Tennessee is prosperous because that state has low taxes, which brings people to the Volunteer State. Lee said because of low taxes, Tennessee has built a "really strong economy."

"Raising taxes isn't the right way to stimulate an economy," Lee said.

Karl Dean: No. "The income tax issue in Tennessee is just off the table."

FOX 17 News Soap Box Poll showed residents most value the characteristic of honesty in Governor.

Can you give us an example of a time you showed honesty in your personal life?

Bill Lee: "I'm a businessman...Our integrity depends on our honesty with our employees and with our customers."

Karl Dean: "It's taught me to my family - time commitments that we require for the family. Talked about in challenges, have everyone involved in making decisions.

Bill Lee: Lee spoke about the importance of honesty when running a business. Being honest and fair with employees and customers is key to success.

"I'm a businessman...Our integrity depends on our honesty with our employees and with our customers."

Karl Dean: Dean said honesty is important when talking to his family, especially when it came for the choice to run for governor of Tennessee.

“Talked about the time commitments it would require for the family and what it would mean for us maybe being apart at times,” Dean said. “My entire family has been involved [in the campaign]. We get to spend more time together."