To the Editor:

It is with excitement, anticipation and humility that I announce my candidacy for the Republican nomination to represent the 64th District for the Virginia House of Delegates. A third-generation farmer, I have been privileged to serve my constituents on the local level as supervisor in Isle of Wight County these last five years, the last two as chairman.

I have longed believed that to represent a people well, one must know those people; and to know a people, one must live amongst them; and to live amongst them is to love them. Through some unseen hand I was placed in southern Isle of Wight County amongst a family that made their living from the soil and amongst a community that cherished the ties that bind small communities together. It is just such a world that typifies the 64th district. A citizenry that, not unlike myself, cherishes their independence, enjoys the freedom to choose their destiny, and expects government on any level to confine itself to specific boundaries. It is my belief the citizenry of the 64th district value a hard day’s work, sunsets, the family unit, recognition of neighbors whenever seen, a handshake as good as one’s word, uncongested roads and quiet summer nights. They expect their communities to be safe, their schools to be excellent and to be compensated fairly for jobs well done.

I contend a representative should never seek to promote oneself, but rather to promote those institutions and values amongst which a free people can thrive and foster human flourishing. I believe a government living within its means typifies this principle. Conservative principles are not merely a catch-all phrase, but rather encapsulate a viewpoint embracing man as having the right to “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” From these principles derives the duty of government to ensure these rights for every citizen and provide an arena whereby every individual has the opportunity to succeed, or fail, based on the merits of their endeavors.

I have learned much during my tenure, and made my fair share of mistakes. I have learned that most people simply want an opportunity to succeed on a level playing field and when treated justly, will return such justice. I have learned that to represent well, one must represent all. And I have learned to listen. There is much wisdom yet to be learned.

We in the 64th district have a grand opportunity to have our voices heard in the State House.

Now, let’s send a farmer to Richmond.

Rex Alphin
Carrsville