On Thursday, 27-year-old Dale Mantey from Rockdale announced his candidacy for the Texas 17th Congressional District.
U.S. Rep Bill Flores who is a Republican currently holds that seat.
Mantey held a press conference in Waco at the Suspension Bridge where he talked about his platform, which includes bringing manufacturing and engineering jobs in Central Texas.
"I think being from this district matters. I think having some skin in the game in this district matters. I took my first breath in this district and I plan to take my last breath in this district and that matters to me. But also my focus is not I work for Democrats or Republicans and I think that's what we need across every congressional district," Mantey said.
Mantey said one of his goals is to bring manufacturing and engineering jobs in the solar and wind energy industry. He also talked about agriculture and student debt issues as some of his priorities.
The Democratic candidate graduated from Angelo State University and Texas State University. He is currently finishing his doctorate at the University of Texas School of Public Health.
Scott Sturm has also announced he is running as a Democrat in that case.
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