WEDDINGTON — The first challenger has emerged to U.S. Rep. Larry Kissell for the 8th Congressional District that will include part of Rowan County under a legislative redistricting plan.
Dan Barry, the Republican mayor pro tem of Weddington in Union County, said in a press release Thursday he has more than $500,000 in contribution commitments so far for the 2012 campaign.
“The 8th Congressional District needs someone in Washington who will fight for lower taxes, fewer regulations and smaller government in a sensible, no nonsense manner. I believe I’m that person,” he said.
Under the redistricing plan approved in July by the GOP-controlled General Assembly, the 8th District will take in part of Rowan County, including the towns of China Grove, Landis, Granite Quarry and Rockwell, and a small part of Salisbury.
Barry said he has been traveling the district and meeting with grassroots organizers and community leaders for months, and that he has “been encouraged and overwhelmed” by the support.
Among his accomplishments in Weddington, Barry touts his work with other Town Council members to hold the tax rate steady in tough economic times and working with local property owners to preserve green space and the town’s rural character.
Barry has also worked with regional leaders to improve transportation safety, his press release says.
Barry is married with three children. He is a church leader and Sunday school teacher. He is a regional vice president with The Principal Financial Group.
For more information, visit www.ElectDanBarry.com.