By Tom Weber, KWMU
St. Louis, MO – A former police officer who lost both legs when a drunk driver slammed into him is now a candidate for St. Louis Alderman. Matt Browning filed this morning to run as a Republican in the 12th Ward.
That's the ward Fred Heitert has represented for more than 20 years, it's also the ward where Browning has lived his whole life, and it sets up a rare GOP primary in the City.
Browning says his career as a policeman made him aware of issues facing city employees. "I have a lot of friends in the police department, the fire department, and city employees," Browning said, in an interview.
"They're the backbone of the community but they're often unrepresented in city politics. So I'd like to give those people a little bit more of a voice to make sure they get a fair shake on things."
Heitert is currently the only elected Republican in the City and is the longest-serving alderman, as well, having been first elected in 1979.
Heitert says he'd like four more years go get more done: "I enjoy serving the people in the 12th ward and I just want to continue.
"They've had me for 28 years - I feel I've served my people well. I wish Matt the best."