Miller, Penrod cruised to primary wins

Twenty-five years ago this week, the voters sent a clear message at the polls.

The May 6, 1998, edition of The Commercial Review featured coverage of the primary election that saw blowouts in the only two contested races for countywide office.

Incumbent Republican Jay County Commissioner Milo Miller Jr. cruised to victory over Don Thomas and Bill Coy in the race for the GOP middle district nomination and Todd Penrod rolled over John Wagner in the race for the Republican nomination for Jay County Sheriff. (Both would go on to win in the general election in November.)

Voting turnout was 32% in Jay County, with 4,150 ballots cast.

Miller dominated his three-way race with 59% of the vote. He totaled 1,502 while Thomas was second with 592.

“I was surprised by the margin because of all the flack (the commissioners) have been catching,” said Miller, who would serve six consecutive terms as commissioner.

“It just shows maybe some people don’t pay attention to (those complaining. The majority of the 32% that voted must think I’m doing all right.”

Penrod won the Republican primary in an effort to replace outgoing Sheriff Kip Robinette, who could not run again because of term limits. He earned 57% of the vote in his victory over Wagner, a former chief deputy for the sheriff’s department.

“I’m relieved,” said Penrod, who served as chief deputy for more than seven years and would go on to be a two-term sheriff. “I have a lot more respect for people that run for public office. I’ve been there twice with Robinette, but it’s different when it’s your name out there. I’ve learned a lot and had a very enjoyable time.”

Primaries for other county offices were unopposed, including Republicans incumbents Anita Mills (assessor) and Judy LeMaster (recorder).