Get to know: Nathan Willett, Republican Primary Candidate for U.S. Representative District 6

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- Nathan Willett is a high school math teacher, a Kansas City Councilman and a hopeful for U.S. Representative District 6.

Willett gained additional recognition among voters when he first declared his candidacy for Missouri Senate District 34, a seat held by Tony Leutkemeyer.

After longtime Congressman Sam Graves announced he would not run again, Willett shifted his sights to Washington, D.C., instead of Jefferson City.

"I think everyone has filed and refiled for a position or two that's running in this election cycle, but we had a strong turnout of people who believe in our message," Willett shared. "Our message is that we need America first and next-generation people stepping up in Washington to represent our communities."

Willett said he prides himself on being a proud Missourian after his family has been in the state for many generations. He said if he gets to Washington, he looks to improve the border, defend the 2nd amendment, and always keep Missouri in mind.

"We need someone who understands North Missouri. This should be an election decided by the people in all 33 counties," said Willett. "This should not be just handed off to somebody else. This should be decided at the election on August 4th, Republican primary."

Much discussion has taken place about candidates' visibility if they are elected, following many discussions of Congressman Graves' public appearances in recent years. Willett shared he has respect for the outgoing congressman, while also committing to his constituents that they would see him around the state.

"This district's deeply personal to me, and I believe that it shouldn't be up to political consultants to decide who wins this race. It should be up to the people of North Missouri," Willett said.

In the GOP Primary on Aug. 4, Willett will be up against Jim Ingram, Chris Stigall and Cody Oshel.