Ray McKinney believes that one of the best ways to run for Congress is to walk. In February and March, the 12th District native Republican will take to the streets, roads and highways of the 12th Congressional District in his bid to replace U.S. Rep. John Barrow (D-Savannah).

“For the past couple of months, I’ve met hundreds of people who have told me they are tired of politics as usual,” McKinney, an Effingham County High grad, said.  “Well, I’m certainly not the usual type of candidate who runs for Congress. I have very little political experience, but I do have plenty of experience solving problems. I believe this year voters are ready to elect someone who represents them, not special interests and political hacks.”

McKinney, a former energy company executive and resident of Chatham County, said he believes Republicans lost control of Congress in 2006 primarily because many of them had turned their backs on the principals that helped win control in 1994.  

“The Contract with America promised to reduce spending, balance the budget, and essentially change the way Congress does business,” McKinney said.  “Unfortunately, after 12 years, the prime goal of too many Republicans became reelection, and pork became more important than principles. No wonder federal spending went through the roof.”

McKinney will begin his 450 mile journey in Milledgeville on Feb. 11 and end it in Savannah on March 20 after walking to and through 30 towns and cities. Along the way he will be staying overnight with local residents.

“It’s important to me to find out what the voters want in their Congressman and what issues and concerns are important to them,” McKinney said. “What better way to do that than to ask them directly?”

For more information, contact the Citizens for Ray McKinney campaign at www.ray08.com.