The Pike County Republican Women hosted a forum Tuesday for political candidates whose hopes are to represent Pike Countians in various arenas during the next terms of office.

Seven candidates took advantage of the opportunity to present their platforms and to ask personally for the votes of those in attendance.

Susan McConnell represented Jonathan McConnell, who is challenging longtime Alabama Senator Richard Shelby in the March 1 primary.

McConnell asked the audience how many were satisfied with the current condition of the United States. No hands were raised.

She said, as Marine infantryman who served Iraq, Jonathan McConnell has demonstrated the kind of courage and leadership that is needed to get American back on the right track.

Angi Horn Stalnaker, representing Senator Richard Shelby, said the senator is rated the most conservative United States senator.

Shelby, she said, is a Christian conservative who fights every day for the people, not only of Alabama but also of the entire nation. He is reliable and steadfast in his service, she said.

Becky Gerritson is a Republican candidate seeking election to the U.S. House to represent the 2nd Congressional District of Alabama.

Gerritson said she is not a politician. She is a military wife and home-school teacher. As a Tea Party movement leader from Alabama, Gerritson said she has a strong resume as a grassroots leader.

Five candidates, who have tossed their hats in the local arena, took two minutes each to introduce themselves to the audience and tell why the lever should be pulled by their names during the primary election.

Incumbent Pike County Commissioner District 3 Jimmy Barron said he ran to serve and he was elected to serve. He has served on the Pike County Commission for 12 years and will continue to work to secure the funding that is needed to make Pike County a better place to live and work for all residents.

Chad Copeland, a newcomer to politics, is seeking election to Pike County Commission District 4. Commissioner R.A Goodson is not seeking re-election. Copeland, a lifelong resident of Pike County, said his belief is that it is vital to create an environment that will not only encourage people to come to Pike County but entice people to stay. The way, he said, to improve the county’s woes is not through new taxes but by bringing new industries and businesses to the county.

Pike County Commissioner Joey Jackson is seeking re-election in District 6. Jackson said when he was elected, his commitment was to improving the road system in his district. Three Federal projects, the resurfacing of one road and the rebuilding of a bridge have improved road conditions in the Goshen area but there is still work to be done, Jackson said. He said he is a strong supporter of senior programs, education and the volunteer fire departments.

Russell Johnson is tossing his hat in the ring for the first time as a challenge for Pike County Commission District 6. Johnson is a lifelong county resident and local business owner. Johnson said he is dedicated to public service and there is a difference between politics and public service. His commitment, he said, is to taking the high road, which is public service. A public servant responds, not dictates and keeps the public informed.

Forrest Lee is entering politics for the first time as a challenger for Pike County Commission District 3. Lee said he believes in doing the best he can, whether it’s coaching, teaching or community service. His commitment as a county commissioner will be to doing all he can to improve the way of life for all citizens in Pike County. He said he has knocked on doors all around Pike County and has been inspired by those he has met and is committed to serving his county.

U.S. Congressman Martha Roby was a guest speaker at the Tuesday meeting of the Pike County Republican Women. She said being back with the group was like sitting at the family table. She said she has worked diligently on behalf of the people of Alabama and good things have happened in spite of Washington. She said positive life-changing things are happening in Washington that may not be immediately apparent but they are happening. Roby said she surrounded by a staff of great people who are working hard every day for the people of Alabama.