A Brookhaven alderman has announced his candidacy in the racefor House of Representatives District 92.

As the only Democrat to qualify for the office with less than aweek before the deadline, Ward Five Alderman D.W. Maxwell wouldadvance to the general election in November to meet the winner ofthe Republican primary. Thursday is the qualifying deadline.

Incumbent Dr. Jim Barnett, R-Brookhaven, is not seekingre-election. His son Paul Barnett and Becky Currie are running forthe Republican nomination.

In making his announcement, Maxwell said in a written statementthat he was led to enter the campaign through encouragement andprayer.

“As a present city alderman, I always use a common senseapproach and I am very aggressive and detailed in my effort ofsolving issues in government,” Maxwell wrote. “I don’t like to rushinto a decision when making important choices for my constituents.All aspects need to be explored.”

Maxwell pledged to listen to the desires of those he serves.

“My first priority will always be to listen to my constituentsabout the issues, then try my best to implement as many of thosegood ideas as possible,” he said.

In other state legislative races, incumbents District 39 Sen.Cindy Hyde-Smith, D-Brookhaven, and District 53 Rep. Bobby Moak,D-Bogue Chitto, so far are unopposed.

The race for district attorney of the 14th Circuit CourtDistrict will feature incumbent Dewitt “Dee” Bates, of McComb,against challenger Nelson Estess, a Magnolia attorney. The 14thdistrict includes Lincoln, Pike and Walthall counties.