Local candidates running in Tuesday's primary had the opportunity to provide their views Wednesday morning on the upcoming primary.
A "Meet the Candidates" forum was held at Center Lake Pavilion, Warsaw.
There were 23 candidates who spoke during the forum. Each candidate had two minutes to speak. This is the third year for the forum, sponsored by the Warsaw/Kosciusko County Chamber of Commerce, Warsaw Rotary Club and Embarq."The forum is important so voters can learn more about the candidates and talk to them personally one on one," said Joy McCarthy-Sessing, Warsaw/Kosciusko County Chamber of Commerce president.
Warsaw resident Eddie Hatfield attended the forum to hear what the candidates had to say.
"I wanted to learn the differences between what the candidates intend to do if elected," Hatfield said.
He said, although the presidential race is important, the county races are just as important.
Jean Northenor served as moderator for the forum.
Third District U.S. Congressman candidates Democrat Michael Montagano and Republican Scott Wise spoke. The candidates face current 3rd District Congressman Mark Souder.
"I am running for Congress because I deeply care about this country, and we are at a crossroads where we need change," Montagano said.
Wise also spoke about the primary.
"Our economy and our nation is in debt, and our foreign policy is in disarray, and it's our duty to put America first," Wise said.
Candidates for Superior Court II judge, James Jarrette and Torrey Bauer, also spoke.
"My reputation is being fiscally conservative, and I would like to continue that in the court room," Jarrette said.
"I am running because I think the efficiency of the courtroom could be improved," Bauer said.
Candidates for Superior Court III judge, Joe Sutton and Mike Valentine, spoke.
"I appreciate the opportunity to serve as judge in this county, and I look forward to serving again if re-elected," Sutton said.
Valentine said he has law and leadership experience.
"After graduating from law school, I served four years in the U.S. Army and that taught me a lot about leadership," Valentine said.
County clerk candidate Jason McSherry is unopposed.
"I have always been intrigued by politics and would like to develop an interactive Web site for the county that would help the office run more more smoothly," McSherry said.
County treasurer candidates Sue Ann Mitchell and Cindy Nolton talked about their experience.
"I have a theory, work in the treasurer's office needs to be hands on," Mitchell said.
Nolton said she feels her experience as chief deputy treasurer will prepare her to be treasurer if she is elected.
"I have education, experience and a treasurer's background," Nolton said.
State House District 18 incumbent Dave Wolkins said, "I appreciate the opportunity I have had to represent the district for the past 20 years and my goal is to work for representing both Democrat and Republican concerns."
Also speaking at the event were: State Senate District 18 candidates Linda Klink, Randy Head, Phillip Messer and Brian Thomas; State Representative District 22 candidates Larry Rensberger, Al Dunnagan, Bill Dixon and Mike Ridenour; County Surveyor Richard Kemper; and County Councilmen candidates Ron Truex, Brad Jackson, Bob Sanders and Dan Damron.
