BATON ROUGE — Five of the nine people running to represent the Fifth Congressional District shared their platforms with the Baton Rouge Press Club on Monday.

The candidates outlined what they hope to accomplish if voters send them to Washington. Those who appeared were Michael Echols, Pat Moore, Austin Magee, Dan McKay and Gabe Firment.

"My priorities are straightforward. Support President Trump's agenda. Secure the border. Reign in Washington spending and make it easier to build, hire and manufacture in America," State Rep. Michael Echols said.

"Even though this district is predominantly 62 percent Republican, let me let you know that I know this is not about a party; it is about people. People are struggling; they're hurting," State Rep. Pat Moore said.

"My whole message and what I believe is that we need proper representation in government. And we can't get that representation from having politicians climb the ladder from a lower level of government to a higher level. Or having millionaires run for office," Austin Magee said.

"My wife was from Bunkie. I wound up in Bunkie and been there as a country lawyer since then, doing general practice. They don't make any more like me...a country lawyer who does a little bit of everything," Dan McKay said.

"Not only am I the most conservative, I am the most accomplished legislator. Congress is a legislative body. We need people who have the skills and experience," State Rep. Gabe Firment said.

Four other candidates did not attend today's forum.