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Published: June 12, 2008 4:32 a.m.

GOP hopefuls line up in District 52

By Niki Kelly
The Journal Gazette
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INDIANAPOLIS – The Republican caucus required to fill the vacant ballot spot for House District 52 has been set for June 23, and already numerous people are showing interest.

The spot is open because Rep. Marlin Stutzman, R-Howe, was chosen last weekend to fill Sen. Robert Meeks’ spot on the Senate District 13 ballot.

Meeks decided not to run for re-election because of health concerns but will finish out his term this year.

Stutzman’s current district covers parts of LaGrange, Noble and DeKalb counties.

The House District 52 caucus will be at 6:30 p.m. June 23 at Wolcott Mills Elementary School, 108 E. Myers St., Wolcottville.

Stutzman said he will not endorse or support any particular candidate as his possible replacement.

“I think there are some good people to choose from,” Stutzman said.

Noble County Councilman Les Alligood of Rome City said he will run in the caucus. He is completing his second four-year term on the council. If he won the House caucus, a spot would open on the county ballot.

The former state police trooper is now a private investigator and bail bondsman.

“I’ve always enjoyed participating in Republican Party government,” said Alligood, who supports privatizing government service if it can save taxpayer dollars.

LaGrange County Councilman Steve McKowen has also thrown in his name for consideration. He, like Alligood, is on the fall ballot for re-election to his county office.

The 38-year-old small-business man owns a bakery and real estate/auction company in LaGrange and lives in Wolcottville.

“I feel it’s important to provide a choice for a strong voice for our government,” McKowen said. “It’s also imperative to create a positive business environment in the state and in northeast Indiana.”

Brad Fox of Rome City also is considering a run. He is a former state representative who served the area from 1980 to 1992.

Other possible candidates who did not immediately return calls Wednesday include Kendallville City Councilman Regan Ford and LaGrange attorney Jeff James.

nkelly@jg.net