Gargan

Krouse explained this week that, while she has always closely followed politics, it wasn’t until the emergence of the COVID-19 Pandemic that she paid careful attention to government at all levels, especially locally.

“I saw the freedom-killing policies I thought I’d left behind in Maryland now invading West Virginia,” Krouse said, adding that she and her husband relocated to West Virginia nine years ago, because of what she saw as liberal social and economic policies in Maryland.

“I began to realize that I wanted Jefferson County to maintain the values that originally brought my family here,” Krouse said. “If I wanted individuals, parents and businesses to maintain the freedom to make their own decisions, I’d have to get involved myself.”

According to Krouse, as a member of the JCC, she would promote a more business-friendly environment in Jefferson County, as well as lower taxes and fees wherever possible. Ensuring that EMS, police and fire have all the resources they need is a top priority for her, as well. Other things that top her list are providing services to end illegal drug use and help those recovering from addiction and to work to literally clean up Jefferson County by taking steps to address litter and waste. Fiscal responsibility is also a key component for Krouse.

Three principles, “Faith, Family and Freedom,” are at the core of Krouse’s campaign.

“The purpose of government is to ensure that we can live our faith, provide for our families and to protect our rights to ensure our freedoms,” Krouse said.

“Up until now, I have been a stay-at-home mom raising our five children,” Krouse said. “I now feel the need to get involved. I want to make sure that Jefferson County is a place where my children can live and work and raise their families.”

Challenging Krouse in the Republican Primary Election is Glenn Gargan.

Gargan and his wife, Lynda, who is a West Virginia native, have owned property in Jefferson County for several years, but moved here just last year.

“I have been in federal contracting and consulting for several decades,” Gargan shared, adding that the work was in multiple areas and disciplines.

Gargan said that he was previously elected president of the Montgomery Village Foundation in Montgomery Village, Md. He described the foundation as a community of 45,000 individuals and 25,000 homes in 25 separate neighborhoods.

“I was there when it turned from a multiple-decade downturn to a resurgence in growth in 2015-2020,” Gargan said, adding he oversaw bringing commercial and residential development back into that village.

“I see positive environment in Jefferson County, which is welcoming to growth, retaining youth in county, education, medical care and resident services, employment and employers, investment and existing, as well as new residents,” Gargan said.

Gargan said he believes his experience and knowledge can be put to work in the county, as he is someone who understands the role and function of the position.

The victor in the primary will face Doyle, who has served multiple terms as a state delegate.