U.S. Rep. Jim Banks, a former Rotary Club president, spoke to the Warsaw Rotary Club on Friday and had a few interesting thoughts.
Banks touted President Donald Trump’s ability to help rebuild the military and change tax policy, both of which have happened relatively quickly.
“While I will never, ever compare Donald Trump to Ronald Reagan, I?will say that what this president has done to rebuild the American military is as Reagan-esque as anything else he has done,” Banks said.
Banks was asked about concerns voiced this week by national intelligence officials, including Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats. They contend Russia continues to interfere in American elections. Hours after they spoke, Trump referred to Robert Mueller’s investigation into the matter as a hoax.
Banks said he doesn’t believe Trump is ignoring the election meddling effort.
“I do believe the investigation is important,” Banks said.
The Columbia City Republican said he doesn’t think Russia’s efforts led to an impact at the ballot box, but added, “We can’t ignore that there were clear attempts by Russians to do so.”
School Board candidates – Filing is underway for elected school board positions. Deadline is noon Aug. 24.
In Warsaw, incumbents Jeremy Mullins (District 5), and Heather Reichenbach (District 2) have filed. Wendy Fairchild has filed to run in District 1, where incumbent Matt Dick announced he is not running again. In the 7th District, Brad Johnson has filed to run for the seat held by Dan Metzger, who also announced he would not seek re-election.
In other races, Lacey Wise and Tom Bauters have filed for Tippecanoe Valley School Corp. Neither is an incumbent. Incumbent Kenneth Miller filed to run in Triton and incumbent Becky Linnemeier filed to run in Wawasee.
Dem outing – Local Democrats will host a “Salute To Service” dinner in September honoring various types of service.
The dinner will be at Noa Noa in Warsaw on Sept. 22, and tickets are $50. Sponsorships start at $100. Social hour starts at 6 p.m.
A speaker for the event has not been announced yet, according to Kosciusko County Democratic Party Chair Brian Smith.
State Chamber Event — One of the Indiana Chamber of Commerce’s annual marquee policy events is the D.C. Fly-in on Sept. 26-27. The gathering traditionally draws 100 business and community leaders from throughout the state to travel to Washington, D.C. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky will be the featured speaker at the dinner on day one.
Proceedings kick off with legislative briefings. Among those confirmed as presenters are 3rd District Rep. Jim Banks, who is expected to discuss immigration; and 2nd District Rep. Jackie Walorski, who will discuss trade and tariffs.
