Edwards says no to nuclear plant construction

Oct 5 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - Bill Bartleman The Paducah Sun, Ky.

Even though Kentucky isn't expected to influence who becomes the Democratic presidential nominee in 2008, John Edwards took plenty of time on Thursday to explain his ideas to about 1,000 people during a stop at Columbus-Belmont State Park.

He said in an interview after his hourlong appearance that success in early primaries in Iowa, New Hampshire, South Carolina and Nevada would offer "huge momentum" toward the nomination. The race is expected to be decided long before Kentucky's May primary.

The former U.S. senator from North Carolina said it's still important to take time to talk to voters and get them involved in his campaign.

After making remarks outlining his platform, he fielded 12 questions from people that he picked at random.

He said he doesn't support the construction of any new nuclear power plants because they are expensive, they take too long to build and "I'm not satisfied we have a safe way of disposing of nuclear waste."

He said his first action as president would be to introduce a bill in Congress for universal health care.

"I'd tell members of Congress that if they didn't pass the bill by July (2009), then we would take away their health care coverage," he said to the cheers of the crowd. "It is not fair that they get health care and others in America don't."

He also said he'd improve the prescription drug program for senior citizens and place restrictions on advertising by drug companies.

"They are spending more money on advertising than they are on research," he said.

On other issues, he said he would:

Change trade policies to require foreign companies to adhere to labor and environmental regulations similar to those in the United States.

Eliminate policies implemented by the Bush administration that he said violate the rights of citizens by allowing for wiretaps and searches of personal records without court orders.

Improve education by implementing incentive programs to get more teachers in rural areas, guaranteeing that anyone who qualifies gets a college education and establishing a universal preschool program.