Meet the Candidates!

Mar 15
4 min read

Join us for a pot-luck-pitch in dinner followed by the Candidates!

A pot-luck-pitch-in dinner on Thursday, March 19th at 6 pm, CalCoDem HQ, 812 Noble Street.
Please bring a dish to share with others.
Most importantly - bring yourself and a friend or two to meet candidates vying for your vote.
The candidates will speak and take questions from the audience.
Other candidates in the audience will be introduced.

The Calhoun County Democrat March meeting will feature the following speakers:

Nathan Mathis, candidate for Governor

Born April 18^th, 1943 to sharecroppers Hosea and Ruth Mathis, Nathan is a retired peanut farmer. He graduated from Alabama Christian College, Montgomery in 1963. While there Nathan worked as a janitor and played on both the baseball and basketball teams.

He served as Houston County Commissioner (1974-1978), Elected Chairman Alabama House of Representatives (1982-1994) Served: Geneva and Houston Counties.

"If elected, I will change the assessment ratio on Class III property from 10 percent to 5 percent. I will change the reappraisal to be once every 5 years instead of annual as now occurs. Re-Appraisal only in years ending in 0 or a 5. This will cut every Alabama home owners property tax in half. Should my proposal cause a loss of any public school funds. I have a plan to replace those funds."

Kyle Sweetser, candidate for US Senate

Kyle Sweetser is a product of the American Dream. His parents married after high school, worked for three dollars an hour, and saved enough to start a family business.

Today, Kyle and his father are always serving customers. His mother manages the phones, and his wife, Anna, oversees the office. More than most, Kyle understands the economic anxiety felt by many Americans, as costs rise, wages don’t, and big corporations make record profits while scheming to become monopolies.

“America was founded on freedom from oppression," says Kyle. “But today, too many Americans work 40 hours a week and barely make the rent. They’re not free.” Kyle is running for the U.S. Senate because he’s worried that the American Dream is no longer achievable for the next generation.

In 2024, Sweetser became a Republican critic of Donald Trump, speaking out against his policies on tariffs and foreign affairs at the 2024 Democratic National Convention. In April 2025, Sweetser switched his party affiliation to the Democratic Party.

Mark Wheeler, candidate for US Senate

Mark Wheeler, a proud 32-year-old millennial born and raised in Heflin, Alabama. I’m a husband, a father, and a passionate advocate for personal freedom, choice, and the well-being of our communities. My wife and children are the reason I felt compelled to step up and serve, because I want to leave them, and all of Alabama’s children, a country that’s more just, more free, and full of opportunity. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Emergency Management from Jacksonville State University, where I worked tirelessly to balance my education with real-world responsibilities. Before pursuing my degree, I spent years working 12-hour night shifts in a wire mill, typically over 60 hours a week with mandatory overtime. It was never easy, but it shaped me into the hardworking, determined man I am today. I put myself through college while providing for my family, and that experience instilled in me a deep understanding of sacrifice, perseverance, and the daily challenges working families face. I know what it’s like to struggle, to juggle work, school, and family, and to strive every day for something better.

Today, I work in research and development, where I apply my background in chemistry and emergency management to develop innovative, sustainable solutions. As someone who loves the outdoors, I’m also a proud gun owner, with my Winchester 30-30 lever-action rifle being a personal favorite. I believe in the right of every responsible American to bear arms, and I’m committed to protecting the Second Amendment and the freedoms we hold dear. My mission is about making the world better for the people I love, and for every hardworking American who just wants a fair shot. Whether it’s fighting for fair wages, safer communities, better working conditions, or the freedom to succeed, I’m ready to serve you with integrity and purpose.

Fred Wilson, candidate for County Commissioner, District 1

Since first taking office in November 2012, I have poured my heart into serving others. With more than 40 years in education and over a decade in county government, I have remained committed to strengthening our communities, supporting families, and creating a brighter future for every resident of District 1 and Calhoun County as a whole.

Throughout my tenure, I have worked side by side with our community to rebuild bridges, pave roads, secure funding for storm shelters, build community centers, uplift school programs, enhance public safety, and expand access to health clinics and vital resources in Hobson City, Blue Mountain, Thankful Community, and Anniston.

As a veteran, deacon, and lifelong servant, I strive to lead with faith, integrity, and a sincere dedication to the people I proudly represent.

“Service isn’t just what I do – it’s who I am.” I believe in building strong communities, protecting our families, and creating opportunities for future generations. Together, we will continue moving District 1 forward.

I am a proud graduate of Alabama A&M University, Tuskegee University, and the University of Alabama. I reside in Anniston, where I cherish my role as a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

Bring your favorite dish to share with others!

We will have dinner at 6 pm followed by our speakers. Meet the candidates and be better prepared to make informed decisions on individuals who will be representing you!