Antonio Blue, a write-in Democratic candidate for the 8th Congressional District, will make an official announcement of his candidacy next week at a Meet and Greet in Rockingham.

The drop-in reception will be held at Hinson Lake, 152 Hinson Lake Road (off of East Washington Street), from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 14.

Blue has received his official certification from the State Board of Elections to run as a write-in candidate and will kick off his campaign at this event. Blue is challenging Congressman Larry Kissell for the 8th Congressional District seat.

“I want to make a difference for the people of the 8th Congressional District,” Blue said. “We cannot continue to have the highest unemployment rates in the state. We cannot continue to have our district among the lowest-wealth districts in the state. Do you believe that the best way to solve our problems is to continue electing the same person?”

Blue serves as mayor of Dobbins Heights. He is a retired veteran who served 24 years in the U.S. Army. He is also former Richmond County Democratic Party chair; serves on the Richmond County Arts Council Board of Directors; and is the president of the N.C. Black Elected Municipal Officials.

The Tuesday event is sponsored by Antonio Blue for U.S. Congress – Committee to Elect.