One of the biggest surprises – and announcements – from Mayor Tom Henry’s State of the City address had little to do with city government at all.FORT WAYNE – Republican precinct voters Saturday sent a government rookie to Indianapolis to be the state’s newest legislator.
Bob Morris, the 35-year-old owner of HealthKick Nutrition Center, was elected to replace Randy Borror representing the Indiana House’s 84th District during a caucus at Allen County Republican Party Headquarters. Borror resigned his position to take a job with a lobbying firm.
Morris scored a decisive win over three opponents with far more government and political experience after three ballots of voting – he was the clear front-runner from the first vote. Even given that lack of experience, Morris said he was confident he would win after talking with all the precinct officials and hearing their support.
“I thought I’d have it wrapped up on the first ballot,” he said after the caucus.
Morris defeated Allen County Commissioner Bill Brown, former Fort Wayne Community Schools board member Jon Olinger and Derek Pillie, the congressional district director for former Rep. Mark Souder.
Morris had the support of state Sen. Marlin Stutzman, who he said helped his campaign. Stutzman was chosen by a previous Republican caucus to replace Souder, a seat Morris also sought. Morris also ran unsuccessfully for Fort Wayne City Council in 2007.
During his short introductory speech, Morris discussed the importance of his family, his strong pro-life beliefs and his desire to reform education.
“We need to get our test scores up and the unions out,” he said.
He also said he would never support amnesty for illegal immigrants and pledged to continue to be in contact with residents of the district. The 84th House District represents northeastern Fort Wayne and is generally aligned with the borders of St. Joseph Township.
Unlike previous caucuses this summer, victory at this one puts the winner in office almost immediately. Morris will likely be sworn in early next week, giving him the ability to use the title of state representative during his fall campaign.
“My campaign has started today,” Morris said.
Evan Smith of Fort Wayne is running for the seat as a Democrat.
