Brian Matlock campaigns for Arizona State Mine Inspector

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - Democratic candidate Brian Matlock is running for Arizona State Mine Inspector, emphasizing his Marine service, engineering background, and experience in heavy industry.

"I'm the best candidate for three reasons: one, my engineering background; second, my broad experience working on every continent except Antarctica; and third, practical knowledge," Matlock said. "I've worn respirators. I've put on the gear, so if you vote for me, you're voting for someone with experience."

Matlock is challenging incumbent Les Presmyk. He says he would inspect a uranium mine in northern Arizona during his first month in office, pointing to concerns he says he has heard from nearby communities.

"My first month in the office, I will be up there inspecting that mine, just so I can give people a warm fuzzy: yes, things are good, or I will have a corrective plan if things need to be corrected," Matlock said.

If elected, Matlock also wants the Mine Inspector's Office to work with communities to secure and clean up abandoned mines.

"Working with the community, it's not a one-size-fits-all situation,” he said. "It's the best-fit-for-most situation. We can work together to clear some of these mines."

To learn more about Democratic candidate Brian Matlock, you can visit his website.