Porter GOP, Dems pick nominees
Former Whiting basketball star Becky Mateja Lombardini edged Porter County Councilman Erik Wagner, D-1st, in Tuesday’s Democratic primary.
The primary results were considered unofficial at press time, but Mateja Lombardini held a 4-point lead when the final results were posted.
Officials reported a turnout of 16.5%.
Wagner was selected over Mateja Lombardini by a Democratic caucus in March to replace the late Robert Poparad.
On the GOP ballot for the District 1 council seat, Ronald “Red” Stone, a Duneland School Board member, held a comfortable lead over Antonio “Tony” Gutierrez.
In the District 2 county council Democratic primary, Council President Jeremy Rivas turned away a challenge from Portage City Councilman Scott Williams.
On the GOP side of the ballot, Barb Regnitz appeared to beat Mike Brickner in the District 2 commissioner race. Republican Jeff Good holds the seat now, but he isn’t seeking reelection.
The GOP winner faces Democrat Julie Giorgi who was unopposed.
Just five countywide races were competitive.
In the GOP county assessor contest, Sue Neff appeared to defeat Becky Gesse Harper by a razor thin margin. Both women work in Assessor Jon Snyder’s office. He didn’t seek reelection.
The winner faces Democrat Valeri Wasserman who was unopposed.
In state races, state Sen. Rodney Pol Jr. held a lead over three challengers, Deb Chubb, Todd Connor and Ron Meer on the 4th district Democratic ballot.
He’ll face Republican Jeff Larson who had a big lead over Johannes Poulard.
State Rep. Michael Aylesworth, of Hebron, fended off challenges from Andrew Boersma and Pierce Fischer on the District 11 GOP House ballot.