George LeMieux, on the issues

George LeMieux hasn't spoken in detail about his stance on a number of hot-button political issues, but as a state House candidate in 1998, he took strong stands in a lengthy questionnaire.

Gay rights: Supported gay adoption and same-sex benefits. Opposed gay marriage but said voters should have the right to decide via referendum.

Oil drilling: Opposed drilling off Florida's coast, a proposal again under consideration.

Taxes: Advocated tax reform. Favored a review of, and possible elimination of, sales tax exemptions that favored businesses. "Income taxes unfairly penalize hard work, and a progressive tax system deters hard work. As for sales-tax rebates for stadiums and arenas, I would prioritize our tax money in other ways."

Abortion: LeMieux said that as a Catholic, he personally opposed abortion "except in limited circumstances such as incest or parental abuse" involving a minor.

Gun control: Supports the right to bear arms with "reasonable restrictions on gun shows." "Florida's laws need to be changed so that the same waiting periods apply to gun shows as gun shops."

Source: 1998 candidate questionnaire, Miami Herald and Sun Sentinel