Politics

AVL board chair announces run for Congress

By Lightning Reports, Published: November 29, 2021

Asheville businessman Matthew Burril announced his candidacy for the 14th Congressional District, swelling the Republican field to five with more expected.

A financial adviser for 35 years, Burril has lived and worked in Buncombe County for more than 50 years. He previously volunteered with the Economic Development Coalition of Buncombe County, which helped bring thousands of jobs to the region. Also, in 2015 he was appointed to the Asheville Airport Authority and now serves as its chairman.

In a video posted on his website www.BurrilforCongress.com, Burril shared his deep roots in Western NC; his conservative philosophy; his business experience; and his extensive service to the community.

Burril announced his campaign while speaking in front of a school in Buncombe County, signaling that he is making a stand against government-overreach in schools.

“It’s time for real leadership," he said. "Washington needs to hear that working people, volunteers, businesspeople, and parents, like you and me, have a voice. I am asking you to send a strong conservative to Washington, who has experience building this region into a productive, authentic, welcoming place that it has become.”

Candidates running for the Republican nomination include two military veterans — Navy veteran Wendy Nevarez and retired Army Col. Rod Honeycutt — Pisgah Inn owner Bruce O’Connell and Republican Party activist Michele Woodhouse. State Sen. Chuck Edwards of Flat Rock is expected to announce his candidacy on Tuesday.