MORGANTOWN — Charles David Hartzog knows he’s not your typical political candidate.
He’s 19, a Morgantown resident and a student of economics, and ultimately law, in WVU’s 3+3 program.
And come January 2023, he hopes to represent the Central District on the Monongalia County Commission.
He’s one of two Republicans, along with incumbent Sean Sikora, who have filed in the May primary race as of Friday afternoon. Sen. Bob Beach, D-Monongalia, is the lone Democrat.
Saturday is the deadline to file to run for state or local elections.
Due to the large number of students residing in the commission’s central district, Hartzog said he believes his age will provide him a valuable perspective.
But he’s not naive.
“It has its flaws as well. I know that,” he admitted. “Students mostly are young and inexperienced, but that doesn’t mean we can’t make good choices. There are a percentage of people who weren’t prepared for the task of being an adult and that colors the perception of all students for many.”
Hartzog considers himself a student of history. For example, he takes tips on etiquette from George Washington and pointers on fortitude from Admiral Yi Soon Shin, a Korean admiral and military general known for his victories against the Japanese navy.
“Admiral Yi wasn’t one of the greatest generals in history because he was loved. He was the greatest because he saved his country. He saved his country from an invasion that they weren’t prepared for. It’s an example of how leisure can lead to destruction,” Hartzog said.
He believes the commission has been too leisurely in working with the state to improve local roads. And while he agrees additional internet access is needed, he questions how much it will help those who don’t have access to adequate devices to use it.
Ultimately, Hartzog said, he’s taking a lesson from family history.
“My great-grandfather was a politician as a county commissioner (in Alabama). He ran several times but only won once. It took him years to win. So, if I lose, I lose, I’m not going to throw a fit about it,” he said, grinning. “But I like to consider myself a lucky fellow.”
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