Amid protest, Sen. Mae Beavers formally announces bid for governor

Pledging to demand "thorough vetting" of refugees coming to Tennessee, and occasionally speaking over the shouts of protesters, Republican State Sen. Mae Beavers formally announced her bid for governor of the Volunteer State on Saturday.

"We can no longer tolerate a system that does not put Tennessee first, that does not put you and your families first," the 69-year-old told a lively crowd under the sweltering sun at Charlie Daniels Park.

Beavers promised homeland safety and security would be a top priority in her administration if she is elected governor, while also reaffirming her positions against abortion and same-sex marriage. She denounced a gas tax proposed by Gov. Bill Haslam, which received strong support in the legislature.

“I’m committed to rolling back those immoral taxes and restoring fiscal responsibility in our budget," she said to the crowd, a mix of people both for and against Beavers that served as an illustration of how divisive her campaign may be.

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