From today’s Elkhart (IN)Truth newspaper:
Hiler to run against Craig Fry
Toll road funds a campaign issue
Published: Tuesday, February 28, 2006 — The Truth, A3
Last updated: 2/27/2006 11:04:39 PM
By Aleks Tapinsh
Truth Staff
Photo: Fred Flury / The Truth
ELKHART — Jeremy Hiler announced recently his intent to challenge Craig Fry for state representative.
The 23-year-old Republican hopes to unseat the nine-term Mishawaka Democrat in the November election.
“Mr. Fry and I have a difference of opinions,” he said.
It looks as though the 75-year lease on the Indiana Toll Road for $3.85 billion is a done deal, Hiler said.
While a lot can be said for not leasing the road, now it’s time to focus efforts on how much money District 5 would get as a result of the lease, he said.
“Who will get the money?” he asked.
“Will it be a divisive Democrat or a Republican who will work with local governments to get as much money for his district as possible?” Hiler said.
Hiler said he would support legislation to allow the name of Jesus Christ to be used in prayers before House sessions, referring to a court ruling which said use of the name in an opening prayer before a session is unconstitutional.
Cutting across St. Joseph and Elkhart counties, District 5 includes most of Mishawaka, parts of Penn and Baugo townships and the west-central portion of Concord Township.
Hiler is a cousin of former U.S. Rep. John Hiler, who served from 1980 to 1990. He graduated from Grace College, Winona Lake, and works in sales at the family-owned steel service center STRIPCO Inc.
Hiler and his wife, Katie, live in Baugo Township and are expecting their first child in May. They attend Osceola Grace Brethren Church.