2010 Election Guide U.S. House of Representatives District 2 – U.S. Rep. Allen Boyd

Reginald Alceus
Outlook Staff Writer

U.S. Rep. Allen Boyd, the seven-term Blue Dog congressman who presides over Florida’s District 2, has brought his mission to aid the people into his campaign for United States Congress. As he competes with primary opponent Florida state Sen. Al Lawson, many in the public are curious to know who he is and where he stands on issues that will impact Florida and the country.

“My attention right now is focused on protecting our environment and economy from this oil spill,” Boyd said. “Our local fishermen, restaurants and many businesses that rely on a steady flow of tourism along the Gulf Coast have clearly been impacted by the oil spill, and I’m doing everything I can to protect their jobs.”

Boyd recently introduced legislation that would create a tax exemption for BP claims checks, calling it the “right thing to do.” Boyd said the legislation would help victims of the oil spill fully recoup the damages they have experienced without having to pay unnecessary fees. Boyd said he felt oil companies should be held accountable for the negative economic impact of oil spills and not the taxpayers. He demonstrated this view by voting to raise the liability cap on economic damages caused by oil spills from $75 million to $10 billion.

“I know that Allen Boyd is fighting for my benefits and so long as I know that, he’s alright with me,” said Terrence Styles, a public defender. “I believe he wants Florida to be a beacon for tourism, prosperity and love. From what I understand and know of him, he seems to be a pretty straight-up guy so the state is going in a good direction given what he’s doing,” Styles said.

For years, Boyd secured funding for projects like the storm water runoff improvements in Frenchtown and improvements to the StarMetro bus system. In addition, he has worked to secure more than $44 million for Florida A&M University to fund research projects and programs. These programs are “preparing our young people to be the community leaders of the future,” Boyd said.

Boyd believes everything needs to be done to support small businesses, encourage hiring and get people in North Florida back to work. Although concerned for all of Florida’s citizens, he has resolved to aid the interests of the minority community.

“I’ve always focused on improving the quality of life for all families in North Florida,” Boyd said. “However, I’m very proud of the work that I’ve done to address the specific needs of my constituents. I’ve been able to secure more than $10 million for infrastructure and transportation improvements in Leon County that have specifically benefited the African-American community.”

“He’s a pretty good person, and he’s done a lot for FAMU,” said Sheila Rumph, a custodian for FAMU. “He’s been here for a lot of years, and he’s put a lot into trying to help people and the economy. I think he’ll do pretty well (in Congress).”

“He’s definitely an educator and supports education,” said Carl Jenkins, a graduate of FSU’s College of Law. “He cares about Florida’s economic situation and jobs. I think he’s a very straightforward politician, and he will do Florida a very good service.”

In recent times, Boyd has come under fire in the media, namely by his opponent, Lawson, who claimed his campaign was funded by special interest money. The controversy surrounding the seeming “feud” between the two escalated during an incident on the campaign trail. However, Boyd has stated that he perceives Lawson to be an honorable and sincere politician whose views he disagrees with.

“I’ve known, respected and genuinely liked Al for years,” Boyd said. “We served together in the state Legislature and took up many fights together. I’m sure when this election is over, we’ll work together again.”

Reginald Alceus can be reached at realceus@capitaloutlook.com