Political Notebook - The blog

  • Coats, Donnelly divided on immigration provisions
     Sens. Dan Coats, R-Ind., and Joe Donnelly, D-Ind., split their votes Tuesday on two amendments to the Senate immigration bill, both of which were defeated.
  • Summer assignments announced
    Senate President Pro Tem David Long has doled out summer assignments to his chamber members.Area lawmakers will serve on a variety of Interim Study Committees.Sen.
  • Stutzman files measure to split ag, food stamps
    Rep. Marlin Stutzman, R-3rd, announced Monday that he has filed amendments in the House to remove the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – also known as food stamps – from the five-year farm bill.
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Forcing fresh blood

Allen County Sheriff Ken Fries thinks there needs to be a change in the Fort Wayne clerk’s office.

While it was not surprising to see the Republican on stage supporting fellow Republican Zach Bonahoom’s efforts to unseat Democrat Sandy Kennedy, Fries made it clear change is good for all offices.

In criticizing Kennedy, who has served seven terms as clerk, Fries said he is limited to two terms, and the clerk’s office should have term limits as well.

“I think every office ought to be term limited,” Fries said, noting this brings new people into elected offices.

While the statement was directed at a Democrat, it must be noted several of Fries’ fellow Republicans would be hurt by this rule. For example, City Councilman Tom Smith, R-1st, attended the meeting and is seeking his fourth, four-year term on the council.

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