Election 2026: District 2 Commissioner Candidate David Bower

Continuing with our “Election: 2026” series, this addition to our candidate interviews features 2nd District* Commissioner candidate David Bower (R). Leading up to the primaries, we will continue to release candidate interviews in order to keep you informed as you make your way to the ballot box.

Publisher's Note: The Washington County Times does not endorse political candidates. Our mission is to provide balanced and informative coverage of local politics so our readers can make their own informed decisions at the ballot box. We aim to give all candidates a fair opportunity to share their views and connect with the community. This Q&A is part of that commitment to open, unbiased political reporting.

*The Washington County District 2 Commissioner covers Jefferson, Monroe, Washington, and Pierce Townships.

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David Bower

For readers who may not be familiar with the role, how would you describe the primary responsibilities of the County Commissioner?

As a member of the executive body of county government my duties will include, but are not limited to, maintaining and managing county buildings and property, including maintenance, repair and improvements of county roads. Also, commissioner duties include maintenance, repair and improvement of all bridges in the county. The City of Salem is responsible for its roads within city boundaries. All bridges in our cities and towns are still the responsibility of your county commissioners.

Your executive branch executes the bid, proposals and contracts process by advertising, requesting and submitting for proposals, including specifications, cost analysis, compliance and completion certificates for all repairs, maintenance and improvements of all countywide buildings, property, roads and bridges including new construction.

Also, any ancillary support services used by county officials must adhere to the bid process. Implementation and development of county budgets, expenditures and contracts on behalf of county employees and elected officials are important and impactful responsibilities.

Can you tell us about your background and any experience that has prepared you to serve as County Commissioner?

I’m a lifelong resident of Washington County. Alongside with family, we operated and owned Bennetts Clothing and Shoes for many years. I became a bus driver for Salem Schools driving for many athletic events and several routes over the years. Our family and business has always supported and donated to promote the efforts of local clubs and organizations, including donating financially and volunteering our time in supporting local sports teams and athletic events – especially those from all county schools.

I believed early in life to serve as a member of many local clubs and service groups. I was elected by the business community of Salem to serve as director of the Chamber of Commerce. I coached and directed the Team Center Football program for many years. I was elected to eight years of service on the Washington County Council, elected eight years as Washington Township Assessor, and elected to serve as Mayor of the city of Salem.

What motivated you to run for this office?

Most importantly to provide honesty, integrity and transparency to all efforts of County government, especially the spending of your tax dollar! Development of new jobs and opportunities for all. No new taxes!  Respect and fairness to all, favoritism to none! The infighting must stop!

What do you see as the most pressing issues facing Washington County, and how should the County Commissioners address them?

Bringing back trust to County Government! Spending your tax dollars efficiently and effectively! Attract business and corporate investment in our community!

County Commissioners are involved in approving contracts and bids. How would you ensure that county contracts are awarded fairly, transparently, and in the best interest of taxpayers?

The bid and proposal process must be transparent. All bids and proposals will be initiated and documented with signature by all three members of County Commissioners. Only sealed bids or proposals will be accepted. All bids will be time and date stamped upon receipt. Bids will be kept in secure location until advertised time of opening. All bids and proposals will be opened at the advertised time and date during an open meeting. All information will be scrutinized by the County Attorney to insure all parameters and specifications match original requirements. All members of the County Commissioners will be required to vote publicly of acceptance or denial of bids. All information will be documented and made assessable to the general public.

How do you plan to remain accessible, transparent, and accountable to residents if elected?

I will be a full-time commissioner! No other job will be held! You may call my cell phone 812-896-7550.  I’m available for individual or group meetings at your convenience. You may view other information on Facebook or LinkedIn.

How would you work with other county officials, departments, and local governments to effectively serve the county?

I pledge to work closely with county council in developing and implementing budgets. We will work together in preparing the commissioners budget. We must remember to support our elected office holders and respect their position and efforts. Employees must be treated with respect and their needs should be acknowledged and acted upon. I pledge fairness to all favoritism to none. Listen and respect our citizens.

What qualities or experiences do you believe set you apart from your opponents in this race?

My history and proven success of owning and operating a business for many years is something I am proud of. I have the experience and documentation of spending your tax dollars efficiently and effectively. I have served in difficult and challenging times. My respect and kindness to others is well known. Our citizens know me as an effective communicator. My history shows I speak business and corporate language. I pledge my efforts in growing our tax base. My history of bringing jobs and investment to our county is proven.

Do you have any final thoughts you’d like to share with Washington County voters?

You should know I never accepted a raise while serving as Mayor, and I turned away the free use of a city vehicle. I did this because of fairness – fairness to employees, and especially fairness to our city residents. I can do more but I need your help. Vote David Bower, the right Republican at the right time!