Visclosky sails to another victory
By Christin Nance Lazerus cnance@post-trib.com November 6, 2012 6:24PM
US Represenative Pete Visklosky talks with Lake County commissioner Roosevelt Allen at the American Legion in Merrillville Tuesday evening. | Jeffrey D. Nicholls~Sun-Times Media
Updated: December 8, 2012 6:21AM
U.S. Rep. Pete Visclosky, D-Merrillville, was re-elected Tuesday night to a 15th term in Congress.
With about half of Lake County precincts reporting, Visclosky was leading 70 percent to 30 percent for Portage businessman Joel Phelps.
In Porter County, Visclosky led Phelps 61 percent to 39 percent with about 70 percent of precincts reporting.
“I want to thank everyone for all of their support, and as a candidate I recognize that being in public service is a privilege,” Visclosky said. “My focus will continue to be on bringing good-paying jobs to Northwest Indiana with a living wage.”
Visclosky addressed at least 300 people, who packed the Merrillville American Legion early Tuesday night, thanking the party’s faithful and union labor for their efforts this campaign.
Both candidates emphasized job creation as a top priority during the campaign. Visclosky touted the expansion of the Gary/Chicago International Airport as proof that Northwest Indiana is providing an optimum climate for businesses. Locally, Visclosky is best known for putting together the Marquette Plan, which aims to reclaim the Lake Michigan shoreline for parks and recreation. Visclosky also is an advocate for saving American manufacturing jobs.
