Senator Shelby addresses economy

SPANISH FORT, Ala. - It was nearly a full house for the town style meeting Saturday at the Five Rivers Delta Resource Center on the Causeway. Senator Richard Shelby told the group he agrees with fellow republicans who are fighting the proposed economic stimulus package.

Shelby said the 800 billion dollar package is fiscally unsound. "Because it's not going to turn our economy. It's probably got a few goodies in it, it'll probably help, but very few, and we're going to borrow a trillion dollars. It's not going to turn it. We need to attack the cancer in our financial system."

But, Shelby said the package will likely past despite strong republican opposition. He's even worried a few republicans may vote for the measure.

But how would he fix it? "I'd shelve it myself, and I'd bring in some of the greatest brains we know to attack our banking system." he said. The senator listened to supporters who said they're feeling the effects of the economy in Baldwin County. Several in the audience are worried about skyrocketing insurance premiums.

"In fact, I just lost mine. I just got another insurance company to pick me up. I was lucky. Some people's insurance went from 3 to four hundred dollars to 3, 5, 8 thousand." said Don Ouellette of Daphne.

"I've been involved in the flood insurance program to make it actually sound. Not let the government do it. But lets spread it out from Maine to Texas where we have hurricanes. The more people paying into the program will lower the premiums." Shelby said.

While the senator said he is working help with flood insurance premiums, several in the crowd said they're also worried about wind damage.

Shelby has served in the senate for 23 years. He told the group he plans to seek re-election this year.