Rep. Eric Watson, R-ClevelandState Rep. Eric Watson, R-Cleveland, formally announced Thursday he is seeking re-election to the 22nd Legislative District he has represented since 2006.
Calling it an honor to serve the district, which includes rural areas of Bradley County as well as all of Polk and Meigs counties, Watson said in his announcement that during his House tenure “we have taken many steps forward in the 22nd District and I want to continue to serve you and complete the work we have begun together.”
The lawmaker said much has changed in the district over the past six years, pointing to economic development such as the $1.8 billion Wacker Polysilicon plant and the building of an Amazon.com distribution center, both in Bradley and both of which received state incentives.
“Whirlpool and Olin committed to remain in our district, which will preserve hundreds of more jobs,” Watson added. “Volkswagen suppliers are now looking at our district as a place to locate and possibly create hundreds of additional jobs in the future.”
The successes came about through partnerships and cooperative efforts between various state and local officials and agencies, he said. The area’s success was recognized by Forbes magazine, he noted.