On August 7, the LVAR Candidate Screening Committee (CSC), comprised of your fellow REALTORS®, conducted candidate interviews for the 187^th Legislative District. This seat is currently being held by Representative Paul Semmel (R), who was defeated in the Primary Election by Carl Mantz (R). Because the incumbent lost the Primary, the race is now considered to be an “open seat.” As a policy, LVAR conducts interviews for all open seat elections with the intention of helping elect a REALTOR®-friendly candidate. The race for the 187^th District is between Archie Follweiler (D) and Carl Mantz (R).

After closely evaluating each of the candidate’s responses to an initial questionnaire, along with personal interviews, the Candidate Screening Committee voted to support Archie Follweiler’s candidacy for the seat.

LVAR is recommending support for Archie Follweiler for a number of reasons. Mr Follweiler expressed a sincere desire to be a partner with REALTORS® should he become elected. He also took favorable positions on issues of concern to REALTORS®, particularly his opposition to the transfer tax. Perhaps the most important determining factor is that Mr. Follweiler is a REALTOR® and has been involved in the real estate industry for over 20 years.

Mr. Follweiler is looking to support policies which preserve the rights of private property owners and help his constituents achieve the American dream of homeownership. He also wants to promote smart growth initiatives, and reduce property taxes in a real and fair way.