Local minister and lifelong county resident throws hat into the ring for the Republican nomination for 18th District U.S. Congress seat

“I have dedicated the past 30-plus years of my life to serving people,” stated Dover native and area minister Hombre Liggett. “I am not a politician.”With those words, Liggett announced his candidacy for the Republican nomination of the 18th District Congressional seat Thursday evening, Jan, 21, at New Philadelphia’s Tuscora Park. A Dover High School graduate who has been married to the former Marci Davis for 15 years, Liggett studied at both Heidelberg University and Southeastern College before returning to the area to pastor Dover’s Church of the Harvest.In his address to those gathered at the park, Liggett defined himself as a true, principled, conservative constitutionalist. “In 1786, our country was in chaos. Poverty and crime were taking over the colonies. Delegates were sent to examine the articles of confederation. Fifty-five men gathered, and they deliberated for over a year…the result was the Constitution of the United States of America. Today you can still read that document, and understand exactly what they meant. I am running for Congress because our Constitution is being ignored. I want to look at every piece of legislation and ask, ‘Is this in line with the Constitution of the United States of America?’”Liggett stated that he is concerned about government financial policies. “I believe it is despicable to see the out-of-control spending in Washington, D.C.,” he said, as many in the crowd applauded. “The liberals on Capitol Hill want to increase the deficit by another $1.9 trillion, right now. It is equal to, or more than, our gross national product. It is unsustainable. We also need to take a long, hard look at our tax codes, and bring common sense back to the table. I think there are things that can make health care better, including torte reform.” Liggett also expressed his disagreement with the proposed national health care plan now pending. “Every program the government has created is on the verge of bankruptcy.”Liggett’s platform also includes supporting the right to bear arms, a strong pro-life position, increased state sovereignty, and the need to be vigilant against terrorism.When asked by an audience member about his qualifications to represent the 18th District, Liggett was quick to reply.“My lack of experience is my greatest strength. I stand with a fresh view. It’s time we elect a citizen rather than a politician. I have a lot of experience, just not the kind that Washington, D.C., is accustomed to.”One attendee, local businessman George Zambie, listened intently throughout Liggett’s presentation, and stood to express his encouragement. “Thank you for doing this. I like what I heard here tonight. You have re-energized me,” he exclaimed enthusiastically.The candidate encouraged his audience to become involved in the political process and voice their opinions, including becoming knowledgeable about the U.S. Constitution. He provided a pocket-sized copy of the entire document to all in attendance. “Get engaged. Call and write your representatives. We cannot say ‘the government destroyed our lives’ when we put them there. I believe it is time we started electing citizens to our nation’s government, not professional politicians. Instead of pedigree, look at character and integrity. We need to reset our country back to the values of the U.S. Constitution.”Prior to Liggett’s remarks, Dover business consultant Don Gibson and Tim Ginter of America Renewal spoke in support of Liggett’s candidacy. Liggett continues to seek signatures for his candidacy petition. For more information, contact Liggett For Congress at 330-260-6819 or www.LiggettForCongress.com.