Reagan Flaherty made it official Monday afternoon. She’s running for the Democratic Party nomination for the 19th District House of Delegates’ seat now held by Republican Terry Austin.
Flaherty made the announcement in front of family, friends and supporters in front of Liberty High School in Bedford.
In an announcement about being a candidate, she noted she grew up in Botetourt County and lives in Bedford with her husband and two children who attend Liberty High School (LHS)
She’s on the board for the LHS Booster Club for the athletic department, and she said one of her main motivations for running for office is to make sure public schools receive their fair share of funding from Richmond.
Reagan said, “I am a passionate advocate for improving our public schools and it is important we recognize the pivotal role teacher’s play for our children’s future.”
As the former chair for the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, Reagan said she learned about the importance of workforce development for attracting businesses to the region. Reagan is a businesswoman who owns real estate investments in the area.
“No one should feel they have to move away from our district to be successful,” Reagan said in a prepared statement. “We have so much to offer right here and we will work together to create even more opportunities.”
Reagan served in the Coast Guard and comes from a military family. She said both of her parents served and she was born at Fort Bragg. Her husband served two tours of duty in Iraq and her son is currently serving in the Navy.
“I love this country and will continue to stand up for what makes our country great,” she said.
