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Nelson running again in 4th Congressional District

A Democrat has announced plans to run in the 4th Congressional District.

Tara Nelsonwas the party’s nominee in 2012. She knew that she’d run again, but says recent events pushed up the announcement.

“With the government shutdown and our congressman making the national news regarding putting down a CNN newswoman anchor, and regarding his comments with affordable healthcare being the most insidious law man has ever made – I really feel that our district deserves better representation.”

Todd Rokita(R-IN4) is the incumbent and likely Republican nominee, should he choose to run for re-election.

Nelson says she needs more grass-roots support and money for next year’s campaign.

“The national headlines that our representative is getting right now – people are calling me, emailing me, wanting me – they’re offering their support to me, saying ‘We need you to run now,’” she says. “They’re offering to fundraise for me now.”

She told party leaders about her plans at the Democrats’ 4th Congressional District meeting over the weekend.

Rokita won 62% of the vote in last year’s General Election. Nelson received 34% with Libertarian candidate Benjamin Gehlhausen receiving 4%.

The 4th Congressional District is drawn to favor Republicans. However, Tippecanoe County Democratic Party Chair Heather Maddox thinks defeating a GOP incumbent is possible.

“Given the current political climate, and some of the positions Todd Rokita has taken, I have a feeling Tara will not be the only one who steps forward,” she says. “There are definitely some serious issues to run on. With that said, whoever it is will still need to bring in a lot of money."

In response to Nelson's announcement, Rokita issued the following response:

Rep. Todd Rokita (R-IN4)

“It is an honor to represent Indiana’s 4th District.  I am focused on addressing the out-of-control spending and debt that threatens the future of our children and grandchildren.  It is healthy for our republic that voters have choices on Election Day.  There will be plenty of time to campaign two Novembers from now.”

 

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