Wednesday, April 01, 2009
Republican says he will challenge Ware
The graphic designer and singer said his top two issues are jobs and education reform.
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From The Roanoke Times
Troy Bird has announced he's seeking the Republican nomination to challenge incumbent Del. Onzlee Ware in the 11th House District.
Bird, a 26-year-old graphic designer who sings in a Christian rock band, represents the first Republican to challenge Ware since he was first elected to office in 2003.
Ware, D-Roanoke, already faces an intraparty challenge in a June 9 primary from community activist Martin Jeffrey.
"I really wasn't surprised that I have an opponent," Ware said. "I didn't know whether it was going to be in the primary or general election. I got both, so it is what it is."
Bird said he's "a normal guy" whose top two issues will be jobs and education reform.
"I believe politicians are supposed to be normal people with integrity and common sense who take up the cause, do what needs to be done and step down," Bird said. "I believe politicians have lost sight of that. They look at their positions as a job. They don't make hard decisions because they're trying to keep their job."
Added Bird: "Onzlee Ware in six years in office hasn't made a stand on anything."
Bird said his parents were Christian missionaries, so he grew up "all over the place." He said he landed in Roanoke 11 years ago and has since married and had three daughters. He just closed the deal to purchase a house on Tazewell Avenue in Southeast Roanoke, he said.
"The biggest thing someone can say about me is I'm young," Bird said. "That's true. But I've lived a full life."
Bird said he has worked a number of jobs, including three years each as an assistant pastor and a contractor. More recently he said he apprenticed at JC's Tattoos and Body Piercing at Smith Mountain Lake, but left to focus more fully on his campaign for the House of Delegates.
He said he's been receiving a lot of input by going door to door in the district.
"It's amazing how many people talk about jobs, but a lot of people around here are disappointed with the school system," Bird said. "I think there are a lot of things that need to be addressed, but those are my two main issues: jobs and education reform."
Bird said he'll make a formal announcement of his candidacy later this week.
Ware announced Tuesday that he will hold an official re-election kickoff next Tuesday at 10 a.m. at Roanoke's Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Bridge.
