Senate field is set

Published 5:55 am Wednesday, February 18, 2009

By By Kerry Whipple Bean
publisher

The field is set for the campaign to fill the vacant state Senate District 22 seat.
State Rep. Alan Baker, R-Brewton, said Monday he has decided not to run for the seat left vacant by the death of longtime state Sen. Pat Lindsey.
That leaves three Republicans and one Democrat vying for the seat, which Democrat Lindsey held for more than 20 years. Former police officer Danny Joyner of Brewton, businesswoman Judy Belk of Citronelle, and former state Rep. Greg Albritton of Evergreen will seek the Republican nomination for the seat in the April 14 primary. State Rep. Marc Keahey of Grove Hill is the only Democratic candidate. Qualifying ended Tuesday.
Baker said many people had encouraged him to run for office, particularly within the Republican party.
A primary runoff, if necessary, will be June 2, with the general election June 21. If no primary runoff is necessary, the general election will be June 2.
Joyner
Joyner is currently the CEO of Safety & Security Consultants Inc. He said economic development is key to his campaign.
Belk, who is involved in developing assisted living facilities in the region, said she is familiar with the issues that face the Senate district.
Albritton
Albritton said he would fight for conservative values. “I have proven that I will fight against higher taxes, will fight to protect our family values, and will do everything in my power to bring more jobs and industry to our communities,” Albritton said.
Keahey
Keahey has been endorsed for the office by Lindsey’s two children. “I will work to improve education, create and secure more economic opportunity and insure that law enforcement is given the tools they need to keep our communities safe,” Keahey said.