Hugs for Matt
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
83rd District State Representative Matt Bell, who represents about a third of northern Whitley County, was among those in attendance for the Third District Republican Congressional Candidate Forum at the Whitley County 4-H Center Building on Tuesday evening. This was his first major political event in Whitley County since his decision to accept a position with newly named Regional Chamber and subsequent decision to not seek re-election in November was shared publicly last week. Many local Republicans greeted Bell and shared their appreciation for his work on behalf of Whitley County as he has served since 2005. Above, a smiling Bell receives hugs and well-wishes from Etna-Troy Township trustee Phyllis Wheeler.
A caucus will be held soon to determine a replacement for Bell in the November election. Several individuals are expected to announce their candidacy for the seat formally once Bell officially files to have his name removed from the ballot, a step that has not yet taken place. The new candidate will run against Democratic candidate Wray McCalester.