It was just four years ago when a future state lawmaker named Curt Nisly was headed toward victory over Rebecca Kubacki. Following his election as District 22 state rep, Nisly soon became a firebrand for far-right proposals such as protection at conception and constitutional carry, the gun legislation that could allow gun owners to carry in all 50 states.
But aligning himself with such causes is not settling well with State Rep. Dave Wolkins who served as Nisly’s mentor early on.
As you may recall, Wolkins came under attack from National Association of Gun Rights, which tried to lump him in with criminals for his lack of immediate support to allow guns in places like city parks and other traditional gun-free zones.
Nisly, who was honored by the group weeks earlier for his stand on constitutional carry, stayed on the sidelines when Wolkins came under fire.
Weeks after the May primary, Wolkins – a member of the NRA – said he will continue to oppose the group and is fed up with Nisly.
Wolkins said he finds it interesting that Nisly touts the idea of representing his constituents’ opinions even though a large majority in his District 22 oppose constitutional carry.
“I’ve given up,” Wolkins said. “I’m not going to help in any way, shape or form.”
“He’s burned every bridge he’s had,” he said.
Nisly could not be reached for comment Friday.
Speedway antics – A Facebook page dedicated to the Warsaw speedway and supporters of racing at the fairgrounds worked for weeks to get people worked up and support boycotts against businesses somehow aligned with property owners who are trying to shut down racing at the fairgrounds.
Apparently, some of those followers on “We Want Another Warsaw Speedway” got a little too worked up. This week, the moderator had to ask followers to tone it down.
While no specifics were mentioned, Sandy Atkins, who runs the page, wrote: “In no way does anyone condone vandalizing or calling people and cursing at them or walking in their place of business just to start trouble!! This has got to stop!!
Smith’s Amendment – State delegates for the Indiana Democratic Party gathered last weekend and updated the party platform. Kosciusko County’s party chair, Brian Smith, successfully led an effort to amend the party’s immigration platform in light of what it sees as abuses by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
The approved stance urges Congress to reform ICE or shift responsibilities of ICE to another organization.
The party’s decision came as attention to the separation of families seeking asylum gained national attention.
On a personal level, Smith advocates for the abolishment of ICE. He’s not alone. There is an anti-ICE rally scheduled for today in Fort Wayne at the Allen County Courthouse.
Demo events – Local Democratic Party candidates and supporters have several events coming up. On Sunday, the county party will host a boat ride on Lake Wawasee via The Frog Tavern. That event starts at 1 p.m. and features Jim Harper, candidate for secretary of state.
Two other candidates are hosting events. Shari Benyousky, who is running for Wayne Township trustee, will host Brewskys for Benyousky at 6:30 p.m. July 5 at Mad Anthony’s in downtown Warsaw.
Benyousky faces Republican Jeanie Stackhouse in the fall election. Longtime trustee Sheila Burner chose not to run again.
At 6 p.m. June 30 Rebecca Burton, a candidate for Tippecanoe Township trustee, will host a “Pasta and Politics” dinner at the American Legion in North Webster.
Burton faces Chris Francis, who topped incumbent Republican trustee Steve Ward in the primary.
