Marlow announces candidacy for seat

Flanked by supporters on the Evans courthouse steps, Lincolnton businessman James Marlow on Tuesday announced his intention to run in the June 19 special election to fill Georgia's 10th Congressional District seat.

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Marlow has experience in sales and management with several technology companies and is the son of former Lincolnton Mayor Buddy Marlow. He said he wants to improve Georgia's 30 percent dropout rate, make the region a leader in biotechnology and bring high-quality jobs to the district.

The Lincoln County High School graduate said he has "a vision for a rural renaissance," and wants to use the University of Georgia, the Medical College of Georgia and other colleges in the area to bring "21st century knowledge-based jobs" to the district.

Marlow, 46, began his campaign with an announcement rally in Lincolnton, before a midday stop in Evans. After a brief speech, Marlow departed for a campaign stop in Toccoa before winding up his tour of the district in Athens.

A self-described "independent Democrat," Marlow joins a crowded field for the 10th District seat, which was left vacant by the February death of U.S. Rep. Charlie Norwood.

Other declared candidates are state Sen. Jim Whitehead, R-Evans; Terry Holley, D-Grovetown; Evita Paschall, D-Augusta; Jackie Poteet, R-Augusta; Julian Hutchins, R-Augusta; Paul Broun Jr., R-Athens; Bill Greene, R-Braselton; Nate Pulliam, R-Conyers; and Jim Sendelbach, R-Conyers.