Kernersville resident Pattie Curran says she’s running for the 5th Congressional District because she’s sick of being ignored by elected representatives.

Curran, 47, is a stay-at-home mom who’s been a social worker, political activist and served in the Louisiana Army National Guard. She also formed a nonprofit group to combat Swachman-Diamond Syndrome, an inherited condition that can reduce output of certain white blood cells, result in a malfunctioning pancreas and skeletal abnormalities.

Curran, a Republican, made her candidacy official during the first week for filing for March 2016 primaries. She will face incumbent U.S. Rep. Virginia Foxx in the Republican primary for the 5th Congressional District.

When asked about her candidacy, Curran dished out harsh criticism of Foxx, and said residents of the 5th District want an average person as their representative in Congress.

“They want someone who is actually going to read the bills before voting on them,” Curran said. “Americans don’t want a career politician. They want an average American and a true conservative.”

She characterized herself as a second amendment supporter who’s pro life. Curran said the Affordable Care Act, commonly called Obamacare, should be defunded. Planned Parenthood should also be defunded, Curran said.

“We’re tired of our voices, the voices of we the people, being ignored,” Curran said.

She said members of Congress refuse to use their power to defund the Affordable Care Act and Planned Parenthood, which is the largest provider of reproductive health services in the United States. A part of the organization’s services provided include abortion.

Curran received a bachelor’s degree from Louisiana State University.

She and her husband Chris have three children.

Contact reporter Josh Bergeron at 704-797-4246.