Republicans for Sussex had its annual friends and family picnic July 10 at American Legion Post 28 in Oak Orchard. The group, formed eight years ago under the leadership of Ron Sams, is made up of presidents and other leaders of Republican clubs in Sussex County. Its mission is to coordinate efforts to broaden awareness of Republican elected officials and candidates who are committed to working for their communities. The group also raises funds to support candidates. For more information, email R4sussex@gmail.com.
During the Big Tent event, as a fundraiser, candidates were given a chance to speak on a real stump. For $5, they could speak for two minutes.

Emcee Drew Sunderland, right, congratulates Suzanne and Ron Sams on their 65th wedding anniversary. Ron is one of the founders of Republicans for Sussex.

Sussex County Sheriff Bob Lee of Seaford leads the crowd in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. Lee, first elected in 2014, is running for another term.

Purchasing stump time from Lisa Briggs, far right, are Candice Green Wilkinson of Ellendale, far left, a candidate for Sussex County register of wills, and Scott Dailey, who is seeking another term as Sussex County recorder of deeds.

Current District 20 Rep. Steve Smyk of Milton is running for the Senate District 6 seat being vacated by the retiring Ernie Lopez. Smyk has served in the Legislature since 2012.

Sen. Brian Pettyjohn, R-Georgetown, and Sen. Dave Wilson, R-Bridgeville, talk politics during the Republican event. Neither has an opponent filed to run against them.

Greg Fuller of Lincoln, who is one of three Republicans running for Sussex County register of wills, attends and used his stump time to sing “God Bless America.”

Jeff Hilovsky of Millsboro is running for the Representative District 4 seat in a primary with Bradley Layfield.

Carl Phelps of Lewes, running against Speaker of the House Rep. Pete Schwartzkopf, D-Rehoboth, says it’s time for a Republican representative in District 14.

Janice Lorrah makes the trip south from Hockessin to attend the event. The Republican is running against Kathy McGuiness in the state auditor race.