U.S. Navy veteran and businessman Chad Robertson on Monday announced his intentions to seek the Republican nomination for the Alabama House of Representatives, District 40.

House District 40 is currently occupied by State Rep. K.L. Brown (R-Jacksonville), who has decided to forgo reelection to the lower chamber.

According to a release, Robertson serves as the executive director of the Cleburne Chamber of Commerce. He and his wife are the owners of Heflin Fitness and Linville Fitness. Additionally, Robertson holds a seat on the Tri-County Tourism Board and sits on the board of Leadership Cleburne County. He is also a committee member of Friends of the Forest.

Robertson asserted that his experience as a small business owner would serve him well in his capacities as a member of the legislature.

“I love this country, this state and this district. I grew up here and am glad that Laura and I are raising our children here,” said Robertson. “I believe that my entire career has prepared me to serve in the Alabama legislature and to make a positive difference for the entire district.”

The candidate indicated that economic development and job creation were issues he would seek to address as state representative.

“Economic development and education are the keys to helping our district thrive,” added Robertson. “By continuing to encourage smart growth and attract more high-paying jobs and increasing the quality of living throughout the district, we can make this the kind of place that our children will want to come back to raise their children. I think that is what we all want.”

He concluded, “I believe in the Bible and the United States Constitution, and I believe that both should be protected and honored. I will fight hard every day in the legislature to stand for our values and to oppose liberal policies like critical race theory, bans on the 2nd amendment and no-excuse absentee voting.”

House District 40 includes Calhoun and Cleburne 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