ADC Endroses Sparks

The Alabama Democratic Conference is endorsing Agriculture and Industries Commissioner Ron Sparks for governor.

Sparks, the Democratic nominee for governor, received the endorsement Sunday, after delivering a speech in which he urged the people of the state to focus on the critical issues affecting Alabamians, according to a press release.

"You must fight for your children's education," Sparks said, according to the press release. "The power is in your hands, and as governor I will fight to educate all of Alabama's children. We can improve the lives of every Alabamian - from providing voluntary pre-k for every four year old to creating quality jobs throughout our state to taking care of our seniors.

"There are people trying to divert attention from what truly matters," Sparks said, according to the press release. "We must stay focused on what matters, and I have a plan to do just that. My opponent doesn't. When I am governor, I will focus intensely and work tirelessly to educate our children, create jobs, and care for our seniors."

Sparks has received the endorsement of 46 of Alabama's 67 sheriffs, the Alabama New South Coalition, Alabama State Employees, the AFL-CIO and Gen. Wesley Clark. He faces Dr. Robert Bentley, the Republican nominee for governor, in the November general election.

-- posted by Markeshia Ricks