By Kirstin Downey
Washington Post Staff Writer
Saturday, April 5, 2008

Amit Singh, an Arlington County-based defense contractor, announced last night that he is entering the Republican primary for the seat held by U.S. Rep. James P. Moran Jr. (D-Va.), a nine-term incumbent.

Singh, a Virginia native who is an electrical engineer, announced his candidacy at a rally at Market Square in Old Town Alexandria.

Singh said in an interview that he decided to run because he represents traditional Republican values, which he said seem to have been forgotten. He said he would focus on restraining federal spending, lowering the deficit and cutting taxes.

"I'm a big believer in limited government," said Singh, 33, who is single. He also said federal bureaucracies, although "well-intentioned," are "counterproductive."

Moran, 62, has worked to improve civil service benefits for federal employees and touts the Northern Virginia suburbs as major beneficiaries of federal spending largesse. A spokesman for Moran confirmed that the congressman intends to run again in November.

Singh will compete in the June 10 primary against Mark Ellmore, a repeat contender for the spot. Ellmore, a banker, said he has the edge because he has the support of many Republican Party leaders.

Singh has come "out of nowhere" to enter the primary, said Ellmore, who will hold his kickoff rally April 22.

Republicans historically face tough sledding in the heavily Democratic 8th Congressional District, which includes Alexandria, Arlington County, Falls Church and parts of Fairfax County. Northern Virginia has been leaning more Democratic in recent elections, and Moran has handily won reelection.

"Obviously, it's a formidable challenge, but people want a candidate who will listen to their needs," Ellmore, 49, said.

He said his views on the Iraq war differ from those of Moran, who opposes it, and parallel those of Republican presidential nominee John McCain, who has stressed maintaining a commitment to staying in Iraq to resolve the conflict there.

"I stand with John McCain lock step when it comes to national security," he said.

Singh said the United States should declare victory and send the troops home, allowing the Iraqis to determine their future.

"In my view, the war is already won, and we should bring them back for a celebration victory parade," Singh said.