Over 70 area Republicans attended the Congressman Adrian Smith and Senator Ben Hansen event in Ft Calhoun on the evening of Thursday, January 15, 2026 at the Northern Lights Venue. The Washington County Republican Party is very thankful for the owners of Northern Lights for letting us use their wonderful facility for this event. Senator Ben Hansen discussed the current Legislative session and answered questions regarding bills being introduced. Ted Japp is running to replace term-limited Senator Hansen also addressed the crowd. Carson Clayton updated folks on Congressman Smith. Unfortunately Congressman Smith’s flight was delayed many hours due to a snowstorm in Detroit. Other Republican office holders and candidates attending were County Supervisors Steve Dethlefs, Steve Kruger and Kevin Barnhill. County Clerk Barb Sullivan. Ft Calhoun Mayor and Sheriff’s candidate Mitch Robinson. Sheriff’s candidate Brian Beckman. Blair School Board member Courtney Tabor. All but one of the Washington County Planning Commission attended as well.