Wadsworth announces bid for Senate District 5
James Phillips
Assistant Managing Editor
Sunday, March 07, 2010
Jasper attorney Brett Wadsworth has announced his candidacy for State Senate District 5.
Wadsworth will be a candidate in the Democratic primary on June 1. The only other Democrat who has announced his intention to run is Bill Cleghorn. Three Republicans (Howard Garrison and Thad Turnipseed) will be competing in the Republican primary.
Wadsworth is a lifelong resident of Walker County. He graduated from Walker High School in 1992. He then attended UAB, earning a bachelor of arts in political science and a bachelor of science in criminal justice with a minor in business administration. He earned his juris doctorate at Birmingham School of Law and is a member of the Alabama Bar Association.
A passion for his family and community is what Wadsworth said prompted his decision to run for Senate. He has been married to Cindy Cater Wadsworth for 14 years, and they have two children, Hannah (11) and Brodie (6).
“This is a great area and I can’t think of anywhere I had rather raise my children.” he said. “There are many values that must be preserved, but in order to improve areas of common concern, we need fervent representation in the Senate. I am committed to the best interests of the people that entrust me with that responsibility and will passionately represent them.”
Wadsworth said he would like to establish community meetings during his campaign to encourage voters to speak out with their ideas and opinions.
“I really want to hear what the people of our district have to say.” he said.
The economy is what Wadsworth said was the most important issue of this election.
“The past few years have been hard on the people of our district and the people of Alabama.” he said. “I see the goal of the Legislature as uniting and developing plans to get this thing turned around. It upsets me to see state government looking after their personal interest and friends, especially when I see legislation being proposed that excludes parts or all of District 5 from receiving state tax dollars.”
Wadsworth gained media attention last year for his work as an attorney in a case against the Walker County Humane Society. Wadsworth represents Marcus Campbell in the loss of his pet boxer, Boost. Wadsworth said the case has brought awareness to the ever-increasing problem of animal overcrowding in Walker County and surrounding areas.
“I have met lots of wonderful and encouraging people within our county and surrounding areas since the ‘Boost case’ started,” he said. “There are so many changes that need to be made in regards to our pets and the pet population. This is one area where I am determined to make positive change.”
Wadsworth said the case highlights many other problems.
“People become justifiably outraged when tragedy occurs to pets, but we have to become passionate and determined about the men and women that have lost everything, including their jobs, homes, dignity and ability to live independently without the support of government, churches, and their families.”
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