Commissioner Bert Liston is running for re-election to continue to represent his constituents in District Four as he has since his election in 2004.

Liston has lived in Jones County since he was 6 and graduated from Jones County High School in 1972. He began his public service when he was elected to the office of justice of the jeace, which is now known as magistrate judge, at the age of 25.

He worked with his parents at Liston’s Grocery while in high school and started managing the store after graduation. He later owned the store with his father.

“Liston’s Grocery as been in existence for 49 years. We still own it, but now it is leased,” Liston said.

In 2004 he defeated Al Andrews, and in 2008, he was not opposed. This year he is challenged by Democrat Daylon Martin. Until this election, Liston has run as a Democrat but registered to run as a Republican when he qualified this year.

He said while campaigning he has been questioned about his decision to change parties but nothing has changed in the way he will represent his district.

“There is no room for parties in local politics,” Liston commented.

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