The Spalding County Democratic Party, in conjunction with the Democratic parties of Lamar, Pike and Fayette counties, held its first annual Third Congressional District Picnic Saturday at Math Field.

The event, which drew approximately 60 people, featured speeches by numerous Democratic candidates running for various state and federal seats in 2010.

Among them were gubernatorial candidates David Poythress and DuBose Porter.

Poythress told guests that Gov. Sonny Perdue is to be held responsible for companies not coming to Georgia, water supplies being problematic and the state’s education system deteriorating.

“This is about leadership, the economic future of our state,” he said. “We know what the issues are. We absolutely must win the governor’s office in 2010.”

Porter sent a similar message to attendees in that he emphasized the importance of bringing economic development to rural areas in Georgia and the need of setting up a conservation plan for water.

Rob Teilhet, a candidate for Georgia attorney general, stressed that it is crucial to serve the people of Georgia.

“Georgia needs an attorney general (for whom) restoring the public’s trust in government is a top priority,” he said. “Someone who speaks out for justice where others seek expediency.”

Spalding County Democratic Party Chairman Jesse Maddox said more events like the picnic will likely take place in the future.

“This is a chance for people to visit and meet the candidates,” he said.

Maddox said the event was a mutual effort by the Democratic parties of the four counties.