Wendy Ghee Draper on Monday announced her intentions to seek election to the Alabama State Senate, representing District 12.
The seat for which Draper is seeking is currently occupied by State Sen. Del Marsh (R-Anniston) who has opted to not seek reelection.
Draper, who was born and raised in Calhoun County, has practiced law for 22 years with a primary focus on adoptions and family law. She works in a firm with her father, Doug Ghee, who started the law firm in Calhoun County in 1976, and several of her siblings. She has also taught business law at Gadsden State Community College.
In announcing her candidacy, Draper touted her record as an attorney.
“As a life-long resident of Calhoun County, I am fully committed to our district,” said Draper. “After prayerful consideration, I can no longer sit on the sidelines. Jack and I are raising our three children here and I love our community. I have spent 22 years fighting to protect the rights of children and my clients. I have a record of getting things done.”
She added, “Now I want to fight for the people of District 12 in Montgomery and I will fight tirelessly against the attack on our conservative family values. We need strong leadership to promote economic development and support first responders, farmers, workers and teachers. As your Senator, I will be that leader. I will always stand for faith, family and freedom.”
Draper believes that the state needs “no new taxes” and stated her support for continued economic growth. She further pledged to fight against “the liberal agenda.”
“We need less government intrusion in our lives and no new taxes,” said Draper. “I will work to protect our families, small businesses and farmers from the liberal agenda. I will seek input from the people of district 12 and our community leaders to find the right solutions and partnerships to grow our economy and create good paying jobs.”
She continued, “More than ever, our law enforcement and first responders should be a priority and be provided with proper resources to protect our citizens. I will always fight to protect our God-given 2nd amendment rights and defend our precious right to vote by ensuring the integrity of our elections.”
The Calhoun County native vows to be an advocate for small business in the legislature’s upper chamber.
“As a business owner, I am keenly aware of the issues business owners and our citizens are up against,” she said. “Small businesses are vital to our community. It is critical that we protect our small businesses, educators and farmers that have been hit hard by the pandemic.”
Draper concluded, “I look forward to collaborating with community leaders to find the right solutions and partnerships to grow our economy, develop our workforce and create good paying jobs in our district. I pledge to protect our businesses, farmers and families from the burden of government regulations and tax hikes. I look forward to listening to the people of District 12 and I want them to know that I will be their voice in Montgomery.”
Senate District 12 consists of Calhoun, Talladega and Clay Counties. The primary election will take place on May 24, 2022.
Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL
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