Stewart says drug problem a top issue

STEWART

Heading into the home stretch of her campaign, Peg Stewart says the county’s drug problem is one of her primary concerns.

Unable to speak with the other candidates for Circuit Court Judge last week, Stewart gave a 10-minute presentation Monday night before the Democratic gubernatorial debate.

“I know there are concerns about how the judicial system handles the drug problem,” said Stewart, one of five candidates running for the position. “And that’s one of my main concerns.”

She also stressed the importance of being able to listen to problems.

“Everybody who has a case wants to be heard,” said Stewart. “Listening is an important part to being a judge. In dealing with mediation, I’ve often found if you sit down with people and listen to their problems, they can work things out for themselves.”

Stewart also indicated she will treat people like people when they have a case before her.

“I believe people should look to the judge to set an example. The only way for that to occur is for that person to show people the same respect.”

The other four candidates are Keith Smartt, Richard McGregor, Bart Stanley and Robert Newman.