By JIM BROOKS
Nelson County Gazette
Friday, July 13, 2012, 11:15 p.m. — Nelson County Republicans met Thursday night for an opportunity to meet and greet fellow members of the GOP and local elected officials at B.J.’s Bar & Grill.
The meeting was sponsored by the Republican Party of Nelson County, and was a partly social, partly political affair. Robert Augustine, chairman of the county GOP served as emcee, introducing the speakers.
Augustine encouraged those in attendance to examine the school board and city council races on the November ballot and work to recruit qualified candidates to enter those races.
State Sen. Jimmy Higdon spoke about the upcoming election and next year’s legislative agenda.
“This is a critical time in our state and country, and we need good candidates,” he said.
One of a legislators’ most important roles is to help create a business-friendly environment that will attract new businesses and encourage existing businesses to expand, he said.
Tax reform is another topic that is being examined, Higdon said. States that have experienced a lot of growth have eliminated personal income taxes and moved to a consumption tax on goods and services. “It’s a big step forward, but its the fairest way to tax somebody,” he said.
Higdon spoke to the crowd about Congressman Brett Guthrie, stating that Guthrie has always been responsive when contacted about issues in Kentucky’s 2nd District. Guthrie faces challengers from the Democratic and Libertarian parties in November.
Higdon introduced state Rep. David Floyd, who told the crowd that Higdon served as his mentor when Floyd was first elected to office.
Floyd said he was looking forward to the November election because it is possible the Republican party could win enough seats to be a majority in the House of Representatives. He noted that he has a competitive race ahead and is prepared for the campaign.
Jennifer Decker, a field representative for Sen. Rand Paul, spoke briefly about the senator’s latest work and constituents services his office can provide.
Fourth District Magistrate Jeff Lear updated the crowd on current projects under way in the county.
Augustine reminded those in attendance to remember the party’s annual picnic set for Saturday, Sept. 22, 2012.
After the comment portion was complete, many of the group stayed to talk or enjoy dinner. About 50 people attended the event.
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