BRIAN BYRNE - Staff writer

Thursday, February 07, 2008

Nels Ackerson came to town Wednesday. The Democrat from Eagletown visited the Clinton County Clerk’s office to file paperwork, making his candidacy official for Indiana’s 4th Congressional District.

“I am happy to present my papers because I am going to represent the folks in Clinton County better than they’ve ever been represented before,” he said to a small crowd of supporters in the clerk’s office.

Ackerson is challenging incumbent Republican Steve Buyer, who has yet to file in Clinton County.

The Democrat must file in all 12 counties in the district. On Wednesday, he also visited White, Tippecanoe and Montgomery counties. He plans to file today in Hendricks, Morgan and Johnson counties.

Sixteen-hour days are not unusual on the campaign trail, but Ackerson has seen positive results from his efforts, he said.

“It’s a very active campaign, and we’re doing very well,” he said. “I’m getting support from Republicans, Independents and Democrats all across the district.”

Ackerson noted his connection to the area, identifying his mother’s family as among the earliest settlers in Boone County. He also recalls annual visits to the Clinton County Fair as a child.

This will not be Ackerson’s last local visit, as he plans meetings with teachers, farmers and attendance at immigration forums.

“I expect to be in Clinton County often,” he said, adding that fundraisers may also be organized.

Ackerson last visited Frankfort to address the Clinton County Democrats’ Roosevelt-Kennedy Club at the Moose Lodge in January. The economy was a point of discussion that night, and Ackerson maintains a strong stance on the issue.

“The economic situation continues to get worse in some respects,” he said. “I’m confident we can turn it around because the American people are a strong people, but we need a government that just doesn’t watch it happen.”

With illegal immigration on the minds of so many Clinton Countians, Ackerson again stressed the need for stronger border control. He also said he believes immigrants who break the law should be deported.

Regardless of the multitude of circumstances and complications involved with working out a solution to the immigration issue, being proactive is key, said Ackerson.

“We can’t just ring our hands, we need to take some action,” he added.

Frankfort City Councilman Joe Palmer, a Democrat, was among those who greeted Ackerson at the courthouse. Palmer had met Ackerson on previous occasions, and has been impressed by the candidate.

“He’s a very sharp individual,” Palmer said of Ackerson, “and in our communication and talks has been very helpful. I think he makes a great candidate.”