Johnny Watts

Johnny Watts is a candidate for Port Commissioner, Position 3.

"I was born in Moscow, Idaho and as a teenager I moved to this area to become a fourth-generation resident. Upon graduation from high school, I began working in agriculture, then into custom woodworking, and general construction. From there, I transitioned to safety and security operations and facility management.

"Along the way, I settled in Huntsville with my wife Cara and raised four wonderful children. Some of my community involvement over the years include; volunteer firefighter for Walla Walla/Columbia Co. Fire District 2, church Elder, YoungLife camp counselor, Liberty Theater performances, Task Force playground construction, Fall Festival, and Christmas Kick Off volunteer and coaching Dayton/Waitsburg athletics. I am currently in the process of acquiring a bachelor's degree in Occupational Safety nd Health, and doting on two spirited granddaughters and welcoming our first grandson.

"I kneel to God and stand for the flag. I believe in American exceptionalism and the brilliance of the Constitution. I embrace diversity and respect individualism. I'm grateful for the courageous men and women of the United States Military, law enforcement and EMS. I support law and order and believe in accountability. I cherish personal freedoms and promote limited government. I'm a fiscal conservative that supports balanced budgets and thoughtful spending. I stand for an education system based on traditional values, free from destructive ideologies. I love my family, my country, and I believe in this community.

"Although the government has a role to play in the development, maintenance, and protection of the American experience, it has become increasingly authoritarian. As Port Commissioner, I intend to enhance public trust and institutional integrity through honest communication, active listening, and fiscally responsible decisions. My vision for economic development and property management will be grounded in sustainable job creation, cultivating small businesses, disciplined community investments, and ethical management of Port properties.

"In the event the citizens of this community elect me to serve on the Board of Commissioners, I pledge to audit all proposed projects such as the trail, broadband, and the management of Port properties to ensure Port of Columbia activities and investments are not pet projects for the few, but indeed legitimate endeavors of fiscally responsible economic growth for the county as a whole."