It is quite funny that Sen. Fred Smith came to Moore County to talk about how the Senate Republicans want to help businesses succeed. But his Senate record on the issue is no laughing matter.

Fred Smith voted against providing targeted tax relief that would have helped 24,000 small businesses in our state by making up to 25 percent of their earnings exempt from taxes.

He voted against community college job-training funds that have helped train 189 workers in Moore County.

He voted against a bill to reduce frivolous lawsuits that are driving up business’ healthcare costs.

He voted against a foreclosure prevention program so that when people lose their jobs in a mass layoff, they don’t have to lose their homes too.

And he opposed a new $20 million rural job-growth program that helps local governments and small businesses create new jobs.

Our own senator, Harris Blake, joined Smith in opposing all these great initiatives. If that’s how they think they can help our businesses succeed, I say we don’t need their help — and they don’t deserve our help on Election Day!

Kent McGill