McGuire will run for House

Retired Appling businessman Brett McGuire announced his candidacy Thursday for Georgia's State House District 117 seat.

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McGuire became the first candidate to officially state his intention to seek the office currently held by Rep. Barry Fleming, R-Harlem, who has said he will step down after the current legislative session to run against U.S. Rep. Paul Broun in the 10th congressional district.

A former Columbia County planning commissioner and former executive director of the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce, McGuire said Wednesday he believes he can make "common sense" decisions to improve the lives of Georgians.

McGuire, 56, said he'd like to see the state fund the building of more reservoirs, cut wasteful spending and improve education.

Among those who endorsed McGuire at his announcement, held at Grovetown City Hall, were former Grovetown Mayor Dennis Trudeau and Columbia County Commissioner Tom Mercer.

"I guarantee you will be proud of how I represent you and your family in Atlanta," McGuire said.

The primary elections will be held July 15.