Madison County Republicans hold election forum for two upcoming elections

NORFOLK, Neb. -- The Madison County Republican Party held a candidate forum for the Norfolk Public Schools and City Council Ward 4 elections Tuesday night.

The Madison County Republicans decided to hold the forum so voters could get an upfront look at the views of each candidate.

Candidates for the school board election faced questions relating to health education, the budget as well as the issue of how parents can be more involved with their children's education.

Jake Claussen, who is a current board of education member up for re-election, spoke with NCN about his goals for Norfolk Public Schools if re-elected.

"I think the first thing is to make sure our teachers really feel heard and that they want to teach for a long time at Norfolk Public Schools. The second thing is that I want our parents and students to believe that Norfolk Public Schools is the best option for them. I believe it is, but I want that to be a commonly held belief throughout our community," Claussen said. 

Rick Benson, the secretary of the Madison County Republicans, said the party will go over all the viewpoints of the candidates and will likely make an endorsement next week.