FRANKLIN
Virginia’s 3rd Congressional Republican candidate came to the Franklin Business Center on Thursday. During his visit, Marty Williams was able to learn about the center, meet with board members and local business owners and with city officials.

“I’m really impressed with the building and what they are doing here,” Williams said after receiving a tour and learning what they do from President and CEO of Franklin-Southampton Economic Development Inc. Amanda Jarratt.

Williams is running against incumbent 3rd district representative Democrat Bobby Scott. With the redrawn lines, the 3rd district now includes the City of Franklin and Isle of Wight County.

“Based on my opponent’s record, I can do a better job,” Williams continued. “He’s lost contact with people. I can better relate to them.”

One thing Williams reiterated throughout his visit is that he is a people person and is just like everyone else. He was born and raised in Hampton Roads, was member of the Chesapeake Police Department for 25 years, is the recipient of several awards during his time as police officer, including officer the year, and is the chairman of the Chesapeake Planning Commission.

Williams said his goal is to get Washington working again. He plans to do this by attracting good paying jobs to the area, reduce taxes on small businesses and families, fully fund the military so the United States can defeat radical Islamic terror groups like ISIS, work to make neighborhoods safe from violent crime and to stand up for the veterans and treat them like the heroes they are.

Williams also added that he wants to help those involved forestry, as well as agriculture.

“If there are no crops, there is no food, and then there is nothing for anyone to eat,” he said. “We [United States] can’t be without agriculture. I want to reach out to the farmers and find out what we [Congress] can do for them.”

Williams also shared some of views as a Republican. He said he believes in a person’s 2nd Amendment rights, but is also a firm believer in that gun-owners should be trained to use them. He also believes in “Right to Life,” except when it comes to rape because he doesn’t believe a woman should be victimized twice.

Williams plans to come back and visit the are several more times between now and November and elaborate on his views and plans if elected into Congress.

“I love the Tidewater area, which is the main reason I am running,” he added. “People have a clear choice. They can vote for me, a newcomer and non-politician, or vote for my opponent, who is a career politician and has helped break Washington.”

Williams and his wife, Kathy, live in Chesapeake and are active members of Aldersgate United Methodist Church. In his free time he enjoys spending time with his family, being outdoors, hunting in Capron during the winter and watching the Norfolk Tides play ball.