Special to the
Opelika Observer

Lifelong Lee County resident Elizabeth Burton has announced that she will run for the open Lee County Commission District 5 seat, which was currently held by John Andrew Harris.

Harris joins Jeremy Gray, Patsy Jones and Ronnie Reed in running for the District 83 seat held by the late State Rep. George “Tootie” Bandy, a man that Burton said she wants to model her political career after.

“He was a wonderful man of God, that was dedicated and believed in helping others. Being a woman of God myself, ‘I put Him (God) (in) first place in my life,’” Burton said.  “I have the same beliefs; I love helping people. I have been told that I am an angel, and I know without a shadow of a doubt, I can and I will make a difference.”

If elected, Burton said she will work to serve the needs of all   citizens in Lee County. Some of her campaign platforms are improving roads throughout the county, bulking up police presence to enhance safety and create positive outlets for area youth, seniors and inmates.

“I have morals, dignity, and self-respect, and I love God and I love others. I will always put God first in my life … it is my desire that everyone be blessed, and I promise that my goals will be accomplished, and they will be done to perfection,” Burton said. “I will work hard to make sure that the citizens of Lee County’s needs are met, by working with Judge (Bill) English and the entire commission team to get the job done.”

Burton is a member of St. Luke AME Church in Opelika, pastored by Rev. Monique Summers.

The date for both Democratic and Republican primaries is June 5.