Edwards announces candidacy for Washington County judge
Posted on Wednesday, August 15, 2007
State Rep. Marilyn Edwards announced Tuesday her intention to run as the Democratic candidate for Washington County judge next year.
There has been a lot of talk about how to fill the office of county judge with someone who has experience in government, Edwards said to a crowd gathered in the lobby of the Historical Washington County Courthouse.
I have that experience, she said.
Edwards, who represents District 88 in the state House of Representatives, said she has held a public office since 1977 and pointed to an area of the old courthouse where she sat as county clerk for 26 years. She has served three terms as state representative. Term limits prohibit her from seeking reelection next year, and she now seeks a return to local government.
We need to keep Washington County moving forward as one of the states most progressive counties, she said.
The previous officeholders have set high standards, which she intends to meet, she said.
If elected, Edwards will be the first woman to occupy the office of Washington County judge.
But this is not about gender and its not about party affiliation, she said. Its about service to all people of this county.
The job of county judge is about balance among farmers, businesses, developers and preservationists, Edwards said.
It is a daunting task, she said, but I believe Im up to the task and Im ready to try.
It will be a team effort with the dedicated staff of county employees and the continued support of the elected members of the Quorum Court, she said.
I will be a frugal overseer of county expenses; there will be no deficit spending, Edwards said. I will have an open door to all citizens and an open mind, not only for what the future holds but how we can benefit from our storied past.
County Judge Jerry Hunton declined to comment Tuesday on Edwards bid. He has said he will make an announcement in September or October regarding his future political plans.
Hunton has served as county judge since 1998 when he replaced Charles Johnson, who served in the position for 20 years.
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