03/23/11 Tuesday, former State Representative Jackie Walorski announced her candidacy for the United States Congress.

“I am running for the United States Congress because I believe we need to get our country back on track, said Walorski. “We need to get our economy moving again so businesses can create jobs; and I believe it’s time to stop the reckless government spending that drives up the federal deficit while passing on massive debt to our children.”

Unemployment figures released by the state for January show unemployment in St. Joseph County at 10.2%, Elkhart County 12.2%, LaPorte County 11.2%, Marshall County 11.2% and the rate is similar most of the counties throughout Indiana’s 2nd Congressional District. Additionally, budget projections released last month show the projected deficit for this year alone stands at over $1.6 trillion.

“The current leadership in our country has failed us. They have promised more jobs, and less spending, but we continue to see record deficits, and unemployment in North Central Indiana still remains over ten percent,” Walorski continued. “In the State House, I stood up to the big spenders to cut waste and balanced the budget without raising taxes, and I understand that we need to keep taxes low and regulation less burdensome so that our small businesses can grow and create jobs.”

Despite entering the race very late last election cycle, Jackie was able to raise $1.3 million dollars and amass an army of more than 3,000 volunteers in just nine months, making her race one of the closest in the country.
“I have been humbled by the outpouring of support and encouragement by my friends, volunteers, and Hoosiers across our district,” said Walorski. “I want them to know that no matter what the district map ultimately looks like, or who my opponent eventually is, I couldn’t be more committed to the 2nd District, and fighting for a smaller more responsible government and a strong economy.”

As is required by the Constitution and state law, the state legislature is redrawing congressional district lines based on results of the 2010 census; with maps expected out later this year. Joe Donnelly the current Congressman has not indicated whether he will seek reelection.