10-02-2025
Rinker wants to make change in Madison County GOP operations
ANDERSON — Lisa Rinker wants to make changes in how the Madison County Republican Party operates with an emphasis on communication.
Rinker is running for county chairwoman against Kelli Heuer to replace Russ Willis, who is not seeking a fourth term.
Current Madison County Commissioner Rick Gardner is running to serve as Heuer's vice chairman. He formerly served on the county council and two terms as county auditor.
The party caucus is set for March 1 at 9:30 a.m. at a location to be determined.
Rinker ran in the 2024 primary, losing to incumbent John Richwine for a seat on the Madison County Board of County Commissioners.
'After the primary, I talked to a lot of people who were blocked from the Republican Party (Facebook) page,' she said. 'It's extremely difficult to run an effective campaign without support from the party.
'I wanted to continue to be involved and make significant changes to the party organization,' Rinker said. 'I want party unity, and there shouldn't be factions in the party. Everyone should fell they are involved.'
She wants to unify the party and bring new voices to the GOP organization.
'I want to encourage strong candidates who feel like they're a part of the party,' Rinker said.
She wants to see more precinct committeemen elected and not have people appointed who don't live in the precinct.
'The committeemen are supposed to know their precincts the best,' Rinker said. 'You can't have a strong party unless you work with the party workers.'
She was surprised during her campaign in 2024 to learn that there is no Young Republican organization in the county.
Rinker said every person running for a Republican Party nomination "should hear from the party chairman to know the guidelines and rules of the party.'
She said it's important that the party have a headquarters location included on a list of priorities.
'I am optimistic going into the caucus,' Rinker said. 'I'm working hard to get support from the precinct committeemen and vice committeemen."
She is running with John Aukerman, who could serve as vice chairman.
'I reached out to John,' Rinker said. 'We share the same vision for the party.'
Aukerman, a strong supporter of the Madison County Tea Party, currently serves on the Anderson Township Advisory Board.
'I got to know John through the Tea Party,' Rinker said. 'We both want to strive for fairness, respect and how we treat other people.
Gardner in an announcement said he has been involved with the Republican Party for more than 15 years.
'I am committed to serving Madison County in the leadership role of vice chair to make a positive impact,' he said in a press release. 'We have a great responsibility and opportunity to continue to grow the party, welcome new members and collaborate with fellow Republicans to serve.'
