Quest for governor's office is based on conservative principles

Editor:

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On May 23 I had the opportunity to speak with the Columbia County Republican Party about my candidacy for governor of Georgia. I determined to seek this office after more than 14 years as an elected representative and small business owner in this great state. I disagree with those who feel that conservative values no longer carry water, and that we as a party are incapable of identifying with the next generation of voters.

One of the things that prompted this decision to run, as I told the Columbia GOP, was that Georgia is increasingly a swing state in national elections and risks returning to its 130-year history of Democratic rule here at home.

In order to circumvent the loss of our hard-won ground, the GOP in Georgia must put forth a nominee for governor in 2010 whose candidacy accurately addresses the shortfalls of our party's recent years in power - namely, the damage to our brand brought on by an inability to keep our very basic commitment to conservative principles.

We need someone who has the business and political experience required to move our economy forward, someone who is capable of making tough decisions from day one, someone who is impeccably ethical, and someone who can work with both sides of the aisle without compromising his conservatism.

I believe I am that candidate, and I would appreciate it if you would visit www.scottforga.com to read my platform and find out how to get involved. I respectfully ask for Columbia County's help to win this race. Thank you for having me, and I'll see you again soon.

Austin Scott

Ashburn, Ga.