Two new challengers to contend for 64th seat

Published 10:30 am Wednesday, February 22, 2017

CARRSVILLE
Two more people have announced they’ll seek to take the 64th chair in the Virginia General Assembly from Del. Rick Morris: Rex Alphin of Zuni and Emily Brewer of Suffolk, both on the Republican ticket. John Wandling of Carrollton, who made his announcement in December, is running as a Democrat. 

Less than a month after declaring he wouldn’t seek another term on the Isle of Wight County Board of Supervisors, Alphin announced on Monday via email that he’ll be running for the state office. The text is on page A2.

Speaking via phone on Tuesday, though, Alphin said, “I have been pondering for months [the decision to run]. People have been asking me.”

Adding that he made up his mind about a month ago, the chairman also said, “I’m going to be traveling up and down the 64th district, talking with people on how I stand on issues and getting to know the 64th.

“I just think it would be a great opportunity to represent people I’ve known my whole life,” Alphin continued. “I would consider it an honor to be a voice for the 64th.”

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On her Facebook page, Brewer is described as a Republican small business owner who will bring a “fresh start” to the 64th district.

She recently posted: “I will work to fight EPA regulations, grow small business, and create economic opportunities across the district. The only thing left out of this article is the importance of our veterans, law enforcement officials, and active duty military. Thank you for serving! I am so proud to be a candidate for Delegate in the 64th District.”

She recently received an endorsement from Sen. John Cosgrove (R-14). In his statement, which was provided by Brewer’s campaign manager Michael Kemp, the representative wrote:

“I am honored to support my friend, Emily Brewer, for the Republican nomination in the 64th House of Delegates District. Emily has worked tirelessly to limit government overreach and protect our communities. I know Emily will do what it takes to start creating jobs, cut red tape and get the economy growing again, all while sticking to her conservative principles. She will be a strong voice for Western Tidewater who will fight for the values that you and I hold so dear. I look forward to serving with her in Richmond.”

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Morris stated via text that he has not yet decided whether or not to seek reelection.