Michelle Hawks, Staff Writer
Photo by Julie Boeker/The News
On Jan. 25, Paul Walker, an associate professor at Murray State filed to run to represent Kentucky’s 1st Congressional District.
Before facing incumbent James Comer Jr., Walker will have to face his democratic opponent, Alonzo Pennington, during the primary election on May 22.
Walker’s platform includes three main points: creating a less divisive culture, increasing the emphasis on education and finding a solution for affordable and accessible healthcare.
Walker said he would also like to see people respecting each other—something he feels has been lost.
Walker has been an associate professor of English at Murray State for 11 years.
He said his experience as an educator and his desire to expand how he serves the community played a large role in his decision to run.
“I feel like now is the time,” Walker said.
He said he believes it is the duty of each generation to create a better situation for the next generation.
“Students represent the next generation,” Walker said.
He said each year, he sees a rise in his students’ anxiety levels, especially in regard to what will happen after graduation.
He said he realizes he is not a politician; however, he said there is a need for those in office, especially in Kentucky, to be in touch with the people they serve.
Walker said he loves his job as a professor, but also said he feels as if this is an opportunity for him to serve in a different way.
“I have no idea what the future holds for me,” Walker said, “but I’d always want to come back to be a teacher.”