Two Republicans announce challenge to Klinker

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - Two Republican candidates are running to unseat the longtime Democratic State Representative in District 27, Sheila Klinker.

Republican Chuck Hockema filed for candidacy in District 27 this week before Friday's deadline.  Hockema is a Lafayette businessman with a background in economics and law.  He said he plans on focusing on education and jobs.

"I've owned and operated businesses here in the Lafayette area and I think I have a really good idea of what brings job growth in the area," Hockema said.

Republican Jan Payne will also be running for State Representative in District 27.  

Payne is a former Fairfield Township Assessor and served as executive director of the Wabash Valley Trust for Historic Preservation for a 1.5 years.

Payne is also a Lafayette native and said she looks forward to giving voters a choice between an advocate for families and local businesses.   

"For me, it will be representing my constituents in Tippecanoe County, bringing a good business environment creating jobs," Payne said.  "Jobs are our number one priority right now."

The winner between Hockema and Payne will face Klinker in November's general election.