Curt Clawson Signs Grover Norquist's Pledge to Not Raise Taxes

Businessman Curt Clawson, running in the Republican primary to replace former U.S. Rep. Trey Radel, R-Fla., in Congress, signed a pledge from Americans for Tax Reform (ATR) not to raise taxes. Clawsons two primary rivals -- Florida Senate Majority Leader Lizbeth Benacquisto, R-Fort Myers, and former state Rep. Paige Kreegel -- signed the ATR pledge earlier in the campaign.

"I wanted to closely study the issue because I was concerned with what impact it would have on my ability to reduce tax exemptions and subsidies, Clawson said. For example, if we wanted to reduce subsidies and lower overall tax rates, would the subsidy reduction be considered a tax increase? Before taking any sort of pledge, it is important to consider all aspects of it.

"After careful review, I spoke to Grover Norquist personally and today I am signing the ATR pledge, Clawson added. I think it is very prudent to take the time to study something prior to announcing a decision."

Clawson also threw a jab at his rivals.

"I find it odd that the career politicians, who had previously voted for tax increases, were claiming to have signed this tax pledge, Clawson said. "It seems more than a bit disingenuous and, unfortunately, typical of career politicians who will say and do anything to win an election.