Dem candidates drum up support

LIMA — They won't be challenging incumbents until November, but two Democratic candidates drummed up support with a friendly crowd Thursday at the Allen County Democratic Party Chair's Club lunch.

Allen County commissioner candidate Connie Miller said this year could be a year of great change for the county.

“Everybody realizes this is the year for change. Our two incumbent commissioners decided to not run,” Miller said. “Now, that's a change. Depending on who the people of Allen County elect, that could be not much change at all or it could be change that really makes a difference.”

Miller, a health insurance agent, will run against the winner of a Republican primary race among American Township Trustee Paul Basinger, U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan aide Cory Noonan and Elida school board member Dennis Fricke. No Democrat is running in the other commissioner race that will see a primary between American Township Trustee Lynn Mohler and Allen County Fairgrounds Manager Jay Begg.

Miller said she will be promoting ideas to consolidate county services, but said it was premature to discuss the ideas in specifics. She also expressed concern about balancing priorities such as law enforcement and extension and youth in agriculture; and the condition of county buildings and landmarks such as the Allen County Courthouse and Memorial Hall.

Bo Huenke, a Honda employee and paramedic, is challenging state Rep. Matt Huffman, R-Lima, for his seat in the fall. He also asked for support. Huenke said he's used to being in a support role for candidates but accepted an invitation to run for his first public office to stand up for average voters.

Huenke said he disagreed with Republicans' actions on school vouchers, guns in bars and limits on collective bargaining rights.

“I want to hear from you, and share your ideas,” Huenke said.

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