Potpourri – Incumbents Retain Edge In Money RaceThe following is an update on campaign fundraising for the 2nd and 3rd district congressional races. The latest filing period represents transactional changes as of April 18.
In the 2nd District, incumbent Republican Jackie Walorski reported total contributions of $1,455,924, with $1,024,286 cash on hand. Democrat challenger Mel Hall reported total contributions of $457,691 and has $236,745 cash on hand.
In the 3rd District, incumbent Republican Jim Banks has total contributions of $599,542 and $422,814 cash on hand. His challenger, Democrat Courtney Tritch, reported total contributions of $328,449 and $203,812 in cash on hand.
Close To Running – Contrary to what one media outlet reported, Ron Shoemaker did not file to run for mayor of Warsaw last week.
But he’s clearly moving in that direction.
A week ago Friday, the city councilman, who was appointed in a Republican caucus to replace the late Charlie Smith in 2015, filed paperwork that allows him to form an exploratory committee and begin fundraising.
The Times-Union reported last month that Shoemaker was contemplating a run that would likely set up a primary battle against Mayor Joe Thallemer.
Thallemer, in his second term, has not formally announced future plans.
The primary is in May.
GOP Activity – Kosciusko County Republicans have re-established office hours at their headquarters at 123 W. Center St., Warsaw.: noon to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 3 p.m. Saturday.
The GOP is organizing its second annual Bob Sanders Golf Scramble for July 26 in honor of the late county councilman. Details on location have not been announced.
According to the group’s Facebook page, the fall fish fry will be Oct. 3.
Promises – Third District Congressman Jim Banks did not wait long to respond to an Associated Press story suggesting the U.S. Army is moving to discharge immigrants who signed up with a promise for citizenship.
On Friday, Banks tweeted: “As a member of the Armed Services Committee I’ve asked the Army for a full explanation. We must keep our promises to those willing to defend our freedoms.”
