The field of official candidates to replace Jo Bonner in Congress grew by two on Tuesday, with more still reportedly considering a run.
Bradley Byrne — former state senator and one-time gubernatorial candidate — announced his intent to run Tuesday, while Jessica James, a former state school board candidate, threw her hat in the ring as well.
“There is little doubt our nation and our region face many challenges – but we also enjoy abundant opportunities,” Byrne said in a statement. “I run for this office as a person who truly seeks real solutions to our problems. I intend to be a part of the effort to realize the promise of our nation and our area.”
James, a real estate agent, said she would promote conservative values.
“I believe that our government should be, as President Abraham Lincoln stated in the Gettysburg Address, a government ‘of the people, by the people, for the people,’ ” James said in a statement. “Sadly, some in Washington no longer believe that. Our Constitutional rights are under attack by the IRS, the Justice Department and the entire Obama administration. In Congress, I will be working for the people of District 1, tirelessly promoting and defending our shared conservative values. I vow to revere and uphold the United States Constitution and I will fight every day to preserve and protect our Constitutional rights and freedoms.”
Previously announced candidates for the seat include Quin Hillyer, a conservative columnist; state Rep. Randy Davis of Daphne; and Dean Young, who ran against Bonner unsuccessfully in 2012.
Several other candidates remain on the fence about a possible run, including state Sen. Marc Keahey, D-Grove Hill, whose state Senate district includes Escambia County.
Bonner is leaving to take a position with the University of Alabama system, a newly created post that will focus on economic development. His sister is president of the university system’s Tuscaloosa campus.