Election Focus: Judge Executive Race

10/27/2014

The Edmonson Voice has had a ton of emails asking us to do a feature on the Judge Executive's race, which is just over one week away on Tuesday, November 4th. We reached out to both candidates, Democrat Bobby Thornhill, and Republican Wil Cannon, and gave each of them the opportunity to address our readers. We asked them to tell you why they're each seeking your vote and to discuss their respective platforms. Each candidate was eager to talk with us, so we're passing it along to you.

From Bobby Thornhill:

"I have said from the beginning I want to work hard for all of Edmonson County! I see an opportunity to move the county forward with new ideas and new energy. I have a business and marketing background that I feel strongly will be beneficial to Edmonson County. I want to focus on jobs and economic progress without sacrificing our outstanding quality of life.

Edmonson County lacks vision and cooperation. As a small county we have to share common goals and work together. Our community lacks synergy. The county needs a vision and a leader to bring elected officials, businesses, schools and families together.

If elected I would bring an intelligent, bi-partisan, dedicated group of citizens together to develop a comprehensive plan for Edmonson County. It’s not about change it’s about a plan, our county needs to be on the same page, and have a united vision. I will focus on job development, emergency services, parks and recreation, small business, agri-business, tourism and transportation to improve the future for our children and grandchildren. Once again I will work hard for all of Edmonson County, not just a select few."

From Wil Cannon:

"The County Judge Executive is the head of the executive branch of the county government and a member of the fiscal court. I've attended fiscal court meetings for over four years and understand the issues facing Edmonson County. I’m a moral conservative and believe that an elected official should be 100% dedicated to the office they hold and should always remain fiscally responsible.

I’ll work to be accessible and responsive to Edmonson County. My job will be to find ways to fund or resolve the issues that we face. I’ll continue to work with our magistrates as I have in the past. I’ll work with the Chamber of Commerce, Tourism Board, and the Industrial Authority to find ways to improve our local economy. I’ll also work hand-in-hand with the City of Brownsville as well as the Agriculture Extension Agent. I wish to see our Fire Departments, Ambulance Service, Sheriff’s Office, and the Jaws of Life provide the best emergency services possible. I’ll also seek to improve our local Parks and Recreation Programs, working with our Park Director.

Selfless service, integrity, honor, team work, and leadership matter to me. I’ll do everything I can to keep Edmonson County the best place in the world. Soon we’ll have the most cooperative local government that we’ve had in a long time, and for the betterment of our county, I want to be part of it."

The Edmonson Voice would like to thank both candidates for their cooperation and for taking the time to speak with us. We'd also like to remind you that voting is one of the greatest privileges we have as Americans, and it's our duty to do so. There are other important local races in the upcoming election that effect us all. No matter who you choose to vote for in this and other races, just make sure you vote on Tuesday November 4th. Your vote counts and it does matter.