District 33 is still in good hands

It’s going to be an interesting 2014 in Indiana House District 33.
District Republicans selected Greg Beumer in caucus this week to fill the seat of longtime representative Bill Davis for the remainder of his term. Davis has resigned from the legislature to head up the Office of Community and Rural Affairs for the state of Indiana.
Beumer, a Jay County native and alumnus of Portland High School, has built a significant record of leadership in east central Indiana as a local official, consultant and grants writer. He’s also experienced on the campaign trail, having run a spirited and tireless campaign back in 1992 against Ron Liggett.
By tapping Beumer, the GOP gives itself a strong hand. He’ll have the advantages of incumbency without any of the baggage that inevitably comes from years of service in the Indiana General Assembly.
In our experience, Beumer has shown himself to be politically conservative but not rigidly so. He’s been a consensus builder, and there’s a pragmatic — get it done — side to things.
But even in a district that leans strongly Republican, Beumer won’t have a cakewalk.
There’s already a Democratic challenger on board.
Shon Byrum, a lifelong Randolph County resident who teaches social studies at Burris Laboratory School at Ball State University, announced his candidacy back in October before Davis surprised everyone with his move to OCRA.
The fact that Byrum was prepared to take on an experienced, entrenched incumbent like Davis indicates he’s serious about the campaign ahead.
And his focus on education is likely to resonate with voters who have grown weary with the endless policy and funding changes emanating from Indianapolis.
For voters then, this is already shaping up to be an excellent contest. Two intelligent, articulate and philosophically distinct candidates are offering their services. What more could you ask for? — J.R.[[In-content Ad]]