Bill Haslam

William Edward "Bill" Haslam ( born August 23, 1958 in Knoxville, Tennessee) is an American politician ( Republican) and since January 15, 2011 Governor of the State of Tennessee. Previously, he was mayor of his hometown since 2003 Knoxville.

Biography

Haslam was first elected mayor of Knoxville in 2003. He took over from Victor Ashe, who did not run after four terms of office. Prior to his election as Mayor Haslam served as vice president of the oil company Pilot Corporation, which was founded by his father Jim Haslam, works. In the mayoral elections in 2007, Haslam won with 87 percent of the vote and went so in a second term.

In August 2010 his party nominated him as a candidate for the gubernatorial elections in November of the same year. In the Republican primary, he won against Congressman Zach Wamp and Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey. His Democratic opponent to succeed Phil Bredesen was Mike McWherter, son of former Governor Ned McWherter. Ultimately Haslam decided the choice clear with 65 percent of the vote and was thus in January 2011 to take over the governorship.

Political positions

Haslam rejects same-sex marriage and is an opponent of abortion. He also advocates the weapons law.