May 23, 2018 2 min read

Now that the Pennsylvania primary has come and gone, a Republican has announced his candidacy for next year’s Washington County commissioners contest.

Jason P. White, 31, a Marianna native and longtime resident, kicked off his campaign last week at a local banquet hall to describe what he calls his “3 E Initiative” focusing on the economy, education and environment.

“As a native of Washington County, I’m aware of what this region has to offer in terms of its collective resources,” White said in a news release.

“We need a new and inspired vision to implement changes here that will use our assets to improve the quality of life for all residents.”

Expanding on his proposed initiative, White wants to tackle the opioid crisis through the use of data-driven software and grassroots initiatives.

He also wants the county to provide counseling to veterans for post-traumatic stress disorder, employment opportunities and job training.

White also said he intends to encourage schools to promote more hands-on education in science, technology, engineering, arts, math and the outdoors.

He also wants to see the county aggressively market, advertise and promote Washington County’s recreation and tourism opportunities, both locally and throughout Pennsylvania, while boosting trade and multiple forms of transportation.

White, who lives in Canton Township, is studying business management and marketing at Penn State University. He described himself as a business owner who has worked as a cattle and dairy farmer, and in various capacities in management and labor at Emerald Mine in Waynesburg.

The commissioner’s position this year has a salary of $91,208.