Blasdel re-elected GOP chair

Local Republicans kept their leader in place.

Jay County Republicans held their reorganization meeting Saturday at The Rock Church in Portland, re-electing Jenae Blasdel as chairman without opposition. She will serve her second term as the party’s chair.

Blasdel was the only member of the party who applied in writing for the chairman position.

“I’m really excited about the second term,” said Blasdel. “I’ve learned a lot …

“My No. 1 thing is to protect this party, and that is what I will do.”

She said her goal is to help keep the party in control locally and statewide in addition to retaking the White House in 2024.

Each of the other positions were filled via nominations from the floor, with about 20 Republicans in attendance at the meeting. Only one nomination was made for each role.

Matt Goldsworthy was elected vice chair of Jay County Republicans. The role was previously held by Caleb Lutes.

“I look forward to working with the whole party,” said Goldsworthy, who serves on Portland City Council, while encouraging any member of the party to reach out to him for anything they might need. “I’m excited to help everybody.”

Michael Brewster and Lenny Muhlenkamp were elected to continue in their roles as secretary and treasurer, respectively.

State Rep. J.D. Prescott (R-Union City), who represents Jay and Randolph counties and part of Delaware County, was in attendance and spoke briefly to the about 20 Republicans in attendance. He offered his support and praise for Blasdel as the county’s GOP chair and added that the party should be focused on keeping its electoral advantages both locally and statewide.

“We need to make sure we keep our foot on the gas,” he said, “continue to have balanced budgets, continue conservative Republican policy. We do not want to become complacent.”

Cindy Newton volunteered herself and her husband Ray Newton to serve as parade coordinators, and Muhlenkamp said he would assist.

Blasdel noted that there was no Republican event early this year because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. She said the party hopes to hold a casual event for its members this summer and to be able to hold a Lincoln Day dinner in the fall.