Hundreds of Republicans rally behind four candidates amid nearby protests
This post was provided by News Now Warsaw
By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw
WARSAW — On a warm October evening — thirteen months before next year’s general election and in the middle of a government shutdown — the political gears were turning in Warsaw.
About two dozen people, including one with a bullhorn, attempted to blunt the enthusiasm of some 300 diehard Republicans who gathered at the Zimmer Biomet Center Lake Pavilion Monday to show support for four Kosciusko County Council candidates who plan to run in next year’s election.
The small but vocal gathering protested outside of the pavilion with hopes of catching the attention of two Republican members of Congress who were expected to attend the event.
The huge political gathering inside was organized weeks ago to support four district council candidates — Tony Ciriello, Dave Wolkins, Brad Jackson, and Joe Irwin, who will be on the May primary ballot and already gained the support of an impressive list of Republicans.
The protest outside the pavilion entrance was hastily arranged and announced to the media on Monday. It attracted a smaller crowd compared to previous recnt rallies held earlier this year near the Warsaw library.
But everyone arriving at the reception was fully aware of the protest.
Monday’s protest was moved to get the attention of US Reps. Marlin Stutzman and Rudy Yakym. Stutzman attended and spoke at the reception and Yakym, who did not attend, provided a taped message.
The impromptu protest coincides with a growing concern among some that Republicans do not intend to extend subsidies for the Affordable Care Act. Without the subsidies, premiums are expected to double or triple, making the insurance unaffordable for many Americans.
“Republicans have been in control of all three branches of government, and they’ve done nothing about healthcare,” said Robert Osbun, treasurer for the Kosciusko County Democratic Party who talked with News Now Warsaw during the protest.
“Their only solution to healthcare is to cut it. They can extend tax cuts for millionaires, but they cut healthcare for us. That’s the solution for health care? Americans aren’t buying it,” Osbun said.
Brian Smith, who chairs the Democratic Party’s 2nd Congressional District, said the protesters intentionally targeted the GOP gathering.
“We also wanted to let people know that while Republicans are busy fundraising like everything is business as usual, we’re fighting to save their healthcare,” Smith said.
Rokita brought up the protesters while making a pitch for the four candidates.
“Who rented the protesters?” Rokita quipped.
“These people put illegal aliens above you. These people put criminals on the street above you. They do not like America as we know it,” Rokita said. “And it’s time to stop coddling.”
Stutzman spoke briefly.
“It’s great to be with you. I’m on furlough right now,” Stutzman said.
“I keep coming home and people keep telling me, ‘Just leave it shut down,’ “ he said, adding, “We’re actually saving money this way.’ ”
Mishler emceed the candidate reception.
The four candidates each highlighted their conservative approach to governance.
Jackson is a former county commissioner who announced his run two weeks ago and is running for a seat currently held form fellow Republican Kimkberly Cates.
Irwin, who was appointed by a GOP caucus earlier this year, said he wants to represent farm interests.
Wolkins is a former state lawmaker and former Winona Lake Town Council member.
Ciriello is a longtime coroner and has a lengthy background in law enforcement. He currently serves as council president.
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