2023 Perry-Spencer Republican Picnic held in Troy

by Kathy Tretter

Attendees at the 2023 Perry Spencer Republican Picnic, held at Mulzer’s Camp in Troy, overlooking the mighty Ohio River, drew a who’s who of party faithful — from Lt. Governor (and gubernatorial candidate) Suzanne Crouch, Congressman (and Senate candidate) Jim Banks, to Eighth District Congressman Larry Bucshon and a plethora of local and state candidates, as well as elected officials. They were joined by about 300 others, ready to nosh on grilled pork chops with all the trimmings followed by homemade ice cream.

The date was Thursday, August 17 and the weather could not have been more perfect.

Lt. Governor Crouch said she loved being in her old stomping grounds. “It’s wonderful to be here!” She praised the party chairs from both counties, knowing what kind of preparation went into the event since she once served as Vanderburgh County chair (not to mention her service as a Vanderburgh county commissioner and auditor, state auditor, state legislator, and now lieutenant governor).

“I understand the challenges [for local officials] because I’ve walked in their shoes.”

As an Evansville native, she reminded the audience that sometimes the powers that be in Indianapolis forget what is outside their boundaries. “There’s more to Indiana than inside 465,” she noted.

Crouch wants to continue the fight to lower taxes and for the state to live even more “within our means.”

Noting, “Government is not the answer to every problem,” Lt. Gov. Crouch wants to tackle the problems that are within the state’s purview.

Crouch, who will be featured in an upcoming article outlining her platform, concluded by asking for everyone’s vote and adding, “Let’s make history together!”

Congressman Jim Banks was introduced by Congressman Larry Buchson, who is both a friend and a fellow veteran. While not on the ballot in November, Bucshon told the gathering, “It is an honor and a privilege to represent you all and I don’t take that for granted. In introducing Banks he explained the senate candidate is a “Conservative warrior for our values … we can trust him to fight for us.”

Banks teased that Bucshon has taught him many things as both a friend and mentor, including how to eat at every McDonalds on this continent as well as others.

When both visited the beaches of Normandy during the 75th anniversary of the invasion Banks said he thought they would go to a nice French restaurant after the ceremony but no, Bucshon took him to McDonalds.

Suggesting it’s time to “impeach Joe Biden,” Banks said he “fights each and every day for our conservative values,” adding “it’s no time for wimpy Republicans.”

He wants the US to send no more money to Ukraine until US borders are secured and he wants to hold China accountable for the influx of the drug fentanyl flooding in to this country.

“I started the first ever anti-woke caucus and made myself chairman of it. It’s a cancer. We need fighters in the United States senate.

“I didn’t back down when Nancy Pelosi kicked me off the January 6 committee. I don’t back down.”

Newly elected State Treasurer Daniel Elliott spoke of his investment strategy since taking office and added he is most excited about doing a job most people think is boring.

Diego Morales, elected last year as Indiana’s Secretary of State noted it was hard work that led to his election. He is passionate about financial literacy for all and added, “I came to America with nothing. I love America and Indiana with all my heart and I’m proud to be your Secretary of State.”