In light of the tragic loss of our friends and colleagues Rep. Jackie Walorski, Zachery Potts, and Emma Thomson on Wednesday, this week's edition of The Party Line will look a little different as we are dedicating its entirety in memory of them.

Shortly after the news broke, I sent the following email out to members of the Indiana Republican Party:

"It is with a heavy heart that I send this email.

"This afternoon [Wednesday] Congresswoman Jackie Walorski and two members of her team, Zach Potts and Emma Thomson, were killed in a tragic car accident in northern Indiana.

"Looking back on the life of Congresswoman Walorski, one key theme that continuously pops up is that of service. In her years representing the people of northern Indiana as both a state representative and member of Congress, she built a legacy of selfless service. It was a privilege of mine to work alongside her, as I have never met a more fierce or effective fighter for what she believed in.

"As many of you know, in his 'free time,' Zach was a key member of the Indiana Republican State Committee. He spent his entire adult career in service to the St. Joseph County Republican Party, the Indiana Republican Party, and the people of Indiana's Second Congressional District. Zach was a friend and colleague, and I will miss him dearly.

"It takes an incredible team to work and stand beside an effective elected official like Congresswoman Walorski. There were no better examples than Zach and Emma, who served not only her, but their district, state, and country.  

"I ask all Hoosiers to please join me in praying for the families of each of the victims of this tragic accident as we mourn these difficult losses."

Sincerely,

Chairman Kyle Hupfer

Jackie Walorski, a native of South Bend, Ind., served as a state representative for Indiana's 21st District from 2005 to 2010 and as a member of Congress for Indiana's 2nd Congressional District from 2013 to 2022.

Jackie lived the quintessential American Dream.

The daughter of a firefighter, small business owner, and Air Force veteran, she learned the value of public service and hard work at a young age, two values that would define her career and life in many ways. 

Jackie, devout in her Christian faith, moved to Romania in 2000 along with her beloved husband Dean as missionaries and founded Impact International, an agency to help provide food and medical supplies to the country’s impoverished children. Her servant's heart would lead her in a different direction when she returned back home to Indiana.

In 2004, she was elected to her first of three terms in the Indiana House of Representatives. Jackie quickly rose to leadership in the Republican caucus and became a leading fighter for fiscal responsibility, working to balance Indiana's budget, lower taxes, and eliminate wasteful spending. She represented her constituents with unmatched passion, something she would continue to do as a member of Congress.

In 2012, Jackie was elected to the first of five terms in the U.S. House of Representatives. She was known as a "quiet force," not the type to find her way to the front for a photo op. But if she had an issue, she wasn't afraid to face it head on in a civil but direct manner. Jackie put her constituents above all else, particularly veterans, ensuring that every one of them could achieve the American Dream like she had.

She was an inspiration to her colleagues on both sides of the aisle and always had a good story to tell.

Jackie leaves behind a legacy of selfless service, one that will be remembered in Hoosier history for decades to come. The Republican Party, northern Indiana, the country, and indeed, the world, are all better because of her service.

Rest in peace, Jackie.

Zachery Potts, a native of Mishawaka, Ind., had served as Rep. Jackie Walorski's campagin manager since 2017 and her district director since 2020. He was also the chairman of the St. Joseph County Republican Party and a member of the Indiana Republican State Committee.

The story of his ascension in government and politics is a great American tale.

Zach began to get deeply involved in campaigns in 2014 when he started volunteering for Rep. Walorski and the entire Republican Party ticket. If he wasn't talking Star Wars, he was working hard to make sure good leaders were elected in his community. There was no job that was beneath Zach; he consistently showed up and delivered with a smile on his face. While he could do it all, he quickly became known as "The Machine" for his ability to make more voter contacts each day than any other volunteer in the state. 

After the 2014 election cycle, Zach focused on continuing to gain new experiences and quickly worked his way up the ladder. It seemed like before anyone had blinked, Zach was elected as chairman of the St. Joseph County Republican Party and became Rep. Walorski's campaign manager and district director. In 2021, Zach took his service statewide when he ran and was elected as a member of the Indiana Republican State Committee. Zach had an uncanny knack of finding himself in leadership positions at a very young age, and he didn't disappoint. 

Despite not even being 30, his resume of service was much longer and more distinguished than most have in their lifetime. He was the epitome of a public servant who cared deeply about his community, state, and country.

While Zach will be greatly missed, his legacy of leadership and service will not soon be forgotten. St. Joseph County, the state of Indiana, and the country are all better because of his service. 

Rest in peace, Zach.

Emma Thomson, a native of Johnstown, Pa., had served as Rep. Jackie Walorski's communications director since July 2021. 

Emma was a graduate of George Washington University and a longtime member of Capitol Hill Baptist Church. Prior to her role with Rep. Walorski, she served as a press assistant for Sen. Marco Rubio's 2016 presidential campaign. After that, she served as communications director for Rep. Michael Burgess (TX-26) from 2017 to 2019, and Rep. John Joyce (PA-13) from 2019 to 2021. Emma also served as the campaign manager for Rep. Joyce during his successful 2020 election bid.

As you will read below in statements from elected officials she previously worked with, Emma was a dedicated public servant that exceled in every role she held. She cared deeply about her country and served it with honorable distinction. 

Rest in peace, Emma.

U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio

"Today Emma Thomson who did an amazing job on my 2016 Presidential campaign lost her life in an auto accident in Indiana. She was a smart & talented communicator and an amazing young woman. Jeanette & I send our deepest condolences to her family May she rest in eternal peace."

U.S. Rep. John Joyce (PA-13)

"Alice and I are absolutely heartbroken and devastated by the news of the passing of Congresswoman Jackie Walorski, along with her staff members Emma Thomson and Zachery Potts. For two years, I had the privilege and honor to work with Emma Thomson. Emma’s intelligence, creativity, drive, determination and humor were second to none.

“Emma’s work ethic was unparalleled. In addition to leading my first re-election campaign, Emma was the voice of our team – connecting with, and reassuring, our constituents throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Nobody did more to make sure that the lights stayed on and our office stayed in communication with our constituents during those challenging and difficult times than Emma.

“A proud alumna of Bishop McCort High School, Emma loved her hometown of Johnstown and the communities where she grew up in Cambria County, Pennsylvania. Simply put, there was no greater champion for Johnstown and Cambria County in Washington, D.C., than Emma Thomson. Our heartfelt and most sincere condolences go out to Emma’s parents, Linda and David, her sister, Molly, and all who knew and loved her.”

U.S. Rep. Michael Burgess (TX-26)

"I am heartbroken for Linda, David and molly Thomson, the family of cherished former staffer Emma Thomson. North Texas, Pennsylvania, and Hoosiers are fortunate to have benefited from her heart for public service."

U.S. Senator Todd Young

"I'm truly devastated. Jackie loved Hoosiers and devoted her life to fighting for them. I'll never forget her spirit, her positive attitude, and most importantly her friendship. All of Indiana mourns her passing, along with the tragic deaths of her staff Emma Thomson and Zach Potts. Please join me in praying for their families in this difficult time."

U.S. Senator Mike Braun

"Jackie Walorski was a tireless advocate for the Hoosiers she represented and a kind friend to everyone she met. She faithfully served her constituents and her Lord and Savior, and I trust she is now wrapped in the arms of Christ. This is a devastating loss, and we grieve for her two staff members – Zach and Emma – who had their whole lives ahead of them. Please join me and Maureen in praying for the families and friends of those lost on this tragic day for Indiana.” 

U.S. Rep. Frank Mrvan (IN-01)

"I am deeply saddened to learn of the sudden passing of my Indiana colleague and Congressional-district neighbor Rep. Jackie Walorski. I am grateful for our all too brief shared time together in the U.S. House of Representatives and appreciate her consistent friendship, example of public service, and openness to conversation. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends during this difficult time, as well as with the loved ones of her staff member Emma Thomson and St. Joseph County Republican Chair Zachery Potts."

U.S. Rep. Jim Banks (IN-03)

"My heart is broken for Dean, the Walorski family, and all who knew and loved my friend Jackie. Jackie was a true public servant - selfless, humble, and compassionate. She was a devout Christian, a passionate advocate for life, and a leader among Hoosier representatives. Everything Jackie did was to serve others. Before Congress, she served in the Indiana Statehouse and she and her husband served as missionaries in Romania where they provided impoverished children food and medical care. From my first day in Congress, Jackie showed me kindness and grace. She had a heart of gold, and I will miss her dearly. Please join Amanda and I in praying for Jackie's loved ones and the friends and family of her two staff members who also lost their lives in this tragic accident."

U.S. Rep. Jim Baird (IN-04)

"My heart is heavy with the news from northern Indiana. Jackie was a true friend & an incredible colleague. Hoosiers have lost a champion & dedicated public servant. Danise's & my prayers are with the Walorski family, as well as the families of the two staff members who passed."

U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz (IN-05)

"My thoughts and prayers are with Congresswoman Jackie Walorksi’s family and all the families affected by this heartbreaking tragedy. Jackie was a good friend and a strong fighter for our country and our freedoms. She will be missed dearly."

U.S. Rep. Greg Pence (IN-06)

"Denise and I, and our whole team are deeply saddened to hear the tragic news of Congresswoman Jackie Walorski’s passing.

"She was a dear friend and trusted mentor who always had serving Hoosiers at the top of her mind. She worked tirelessly on behalf of the community she loved, and words cannot describe what a tremendous loss this is for the State of Indiana and our Nation.

"I ask everyone to join me in praying for the Congresswoman’s family, friends, staff and those she served during this difficult time."

U.S. Rep. André Carson (IN-07)

"I am heartbroken to hear of the untimely passing of my colleague, Congresswoman Jackie Walorski, two of her Senior Staffers and others who passed today in an automobile crash in Northern Indiana. I, along with all Hoosiers are devastated by this loss. I am praying for the families, the staff and constituents of the 2nd Congressional District of Indiana."

U.S. Rep. Larry Bucshon (IN-08)

"I am devastated and heartbroken by the deaths of my colleague and friend Jackie Walorski and her staff members Zachary Potts and Emma Thomson in a car crash earlier today. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of their families and friends."

U.S. Rep. Trey Hollingsworth (IN-09)

"Today, Indiana and our country mourn the loss of three incredible public servants. Jackie Walorski was an unparalleled advocate for Hoosiers with a fierce love for her family and her country. I know her staffers, Emma Thomson and Zachery Potts, shared her conviction for selfless service, and I am heartbroken over our great state’s and nation’s loss."

U.S. Rep. Kevin McCarthy (CA-23), Republican Leader of the U.S. House of Representatives 

"This news is absolutely devastating. Jackie was a dear friend, trusted advisor, and the embodiment of integrity who achieved the admiration and respect of all her colleagues in the House. She was passionate about empowering children and families in Indiana and around the world to thrive. Her experience running a foundation in Romania that provided food and medical supplies to needy children clearly informed her time in Congress. Whether she was fighting for justice for fentanyl victims or advocating for educational choice for children, she always put others first.

“When there was a vacancy for Republican leader of the Ethics Committee, she was my first call. Everyone who knew Jackie knows she was tough, but fair – a no nonsense, straight shooter who knew that Congress must reflect the will of the people with decency and honesty. The House will greatly miss Jackie’s compassion, dedication, and integrity, but we should all seek to honor her memory by living our lives with the same commitment to others that Jackie lived hers.

“I spoke with Dean and offered my deepest condolences and also share those with the families of Zachery Potts and Emma Thomson. Like Jackie, they were committed to making the country a better place and represent what it means to be a true public servant.”

U.S. Rep. Steve Scalise (LA-01), Republican Whip of the U.S. House of Representatives

"I am devastated and saddened to learn about the tragic passing of my dear friend Jackie Walorksi and two of her staffers.

“Jackie was an instrumental member of our conference, serving as a member of my deputy whip team for several years. She was a champion for the people of Indiana, and she will be remembered for her kindness, tenacity, and commitment to helping others.

“Jackie and her staffers died serving her constituents. They will be missed, and our nation will miss their service. My prayers are with Jackie’s loving husband Dean, her entire family, and the families of both of her staffers.”

United States Ambassador to the Holy See and Former U.S. Senator for Indiana Joe Donnelly

"I am deeply saddened by the death of Congresswoman Jackie Walorski today. We also grieve for the loss of life of Zachery Potts, Emma Thomson, and Edith Schmucker. This is a terrible tragedy."

Republican Candidate for IN-01 Jennifer-Ruth Green

"I’m extremely heartbroken to hear the news of Congresswoman Jackie Walorski’s passing. Her 9 years of service to our country were incredibly honorable. As a candidate, she was a consistent encouragement to me, and I’m grateful for her kindness. The Walorski, Potts, Thomson, and Schmucker families are in our prayers."

Republican Candidate for IN-07 Angela Grabovsky

"I was deeply saddened to hear the news about our friend, Congresswoman Jackie Walorski, and her colleagues, Zachery Potts and Emma Thomson. Jackie was a true servant of the people, providing strong leadership in the Indiana Statehouse, in Congress and throughout her entire life. In 2000, Jackie moved to Romania and demonstrated her compassion and commitment by founding an organization that provided much-needed medical supplies and care to impoverished children. She then remained in Romania and served as a Christian missionary until 2004. Jackie Walorski had a servant's heart and will be missed. Our prayers go out to her family, as well as the families of Zachery and Emma."

Republican Candidate for IN-09 Erin Houhcin

"I am heartbroken over the shocking and untimely passing of Congresswoman Jackie Walorski. My prayers are with her family and the families of her staffers who also passed, Zach, and Emma.

"Jackie was a phenomenal public servant in Congress, the State Legislature and in her overseas Christian missionary work in Eastern Europe.

"She was a true friend and mentor to me and so many others. She was one of the first to encourage me to run for Congress and never hesitated to offer advice and assistance when called upon. Her upbeat, caring spirit, and Christian faith provides an example I hope other leaders will emulate for years to come and in doing so, her legacy will endure.

"Please join me in praying for her husband, Dean, her family, and all those who loved her. She will be deeply missed."

Governor Eric Holcomb

"Janet and I are devastated by the tragic loss of our friend Congresswoman Jackie Walorski and her two staffers - Emma Thomson and Zach Potts - earlier today. Our broken hearts go out to her husband Dean and the entire family during this time of unimaginable mourning. At every level of public service Jackie was known to be a positive force of nature, a patriot, and a relentless policy maker with an unwavering loyalty to her constituents. Jackie’s record of achievement is impossible to quantify. She will be remembered as a fighter with a huge heart that always went the extra mile and I’ll treasure the times we walked a few of those together. Every waking moment for her was energetically devoted to improving the lives of all Hoosiers, the epitome of a good and faithful servant. She, and the example she set, will be missed every day forward."

Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch

"I was shocked and heartbroken when I received the news today about the tragic death of Congresswoman Jackie Walorski. Jackie and I served together in the Indiana House of Representatives, and she was a fighter for her constituents and conservative Hoosier values. My heart goes out to her husband, Dean, and the rest of her family and friends. She will be deeply missed."

Secretary of State Holli Sullivan

"I am deeply saddened by the loss of my dear friend Jackie Walorski. Jackie loved Hoosiers, her country and served with honor in Congress. My prayers are with her family as well as the families of Zachery Potts and Emma Thomson."

Treasurer of State Kelly Mitchell

"I'm heartbroken at the news of Jackie Walorski's passing. She was an upstanding public servant, a tireless advocate, and a good friend. Our frequent collaborations revealed her passion for our country, and she never shied away from a challenge. She will be sorely missed. My prayers are with her family, and with the families of Emma Thomson and Zachery Potts. We lost three great Hoosiers yesterday."

Attorney General Todd Rokita

"Jackie Walorski was a woman who stood strong in her values, cared for her family, and served Hoosiers well. I have many great memories and stories of our time together in Congress and on the campaign trail. In addition to everything else, she had a great sense of humor. She will be missed. Our sympathies also go out to the families of Zach Potts and Emma Thomson who died in the same tragic accident. Hoosiers across the state mourn the loss of these public servants."

Speaker of the Indiana House of Representatives Todd Huston

“Jackie was an incredible public servant and tenacious advocate for Hoosiers, and my heart breaks for her family and all those who knew her and served alongside her. I'm grateful for Jackie's years of service and friendship, and she's left an indelible impression on all of us. I'm also praying for the families of her two young staff, and the other driver who passed away in this tragic crash."

President Pro Tem of the Indiana Senate Rodric Bray

"I am shocked and devastated to learn of the deaths of Congresswoman Walorski and those who were involved in the tragic car accident this afternoon. Congresswoman Walorski was a ferocious advocate for her constituents and cared deeply about making Indiana and our country a better place for all of us. I know my family, and my colleagues here at the Statehouse, will be grieving alongside her loved ones and constituents." 

Republican Candidate for Secretary of State Diego Morales

"Sidonia and I are saddened to hear the news of the passing of our friend Congresswoman Jackie Walorski. Jackie was a true public servant, serving Indiana in Congress for a decade. She was an unwavering conservative and always stood up for what was right. Our prayers are with Jackie's husband, Dean, and her family and those impacted by this tragic accident."

"Sidonia and I are saddened to hear the news of the passing of our friend Zach Potts. Zach was a leader in the Republican Party, as Chairman of the St. Joseph County Republican Party and the Chairman of the 2nd Congressional District. Our prayers are with Zach's family and those impacted by this tragic accident."

Republican Candidate for Treasurer of State Dan Elliott

"Jackie was a true servant not just in Congress, but in her community. She loved Indiana and the people she served. We also remember Chairman Zach Potts and Emma Thomson for their service to their community. Our family will be praying for their families, staff, and all those who knew them at this tragic time."

Former President of the United States Donald Trump

"I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my good friend, Congresswoman Jackie Walorski, her aide Emma Thomson, and community leader Zachery Potts. Jackie was a wonderful woman and an impassioned advocate for the people of Indiana. We worked together very closely, and I was privileged to know her for many years. May the families and loved ones of Jackie, Emma, and Zachery find comfort during this tragic time. They will be greatly missed!"

Former First Lady of the United States Melania Trump

"It is heartbreaking to hear about the tragic loss of Congresswoman Jackie Walorski. She was a wonderful advocate for children. I had the privilege of working with her to help our Nation’s youth, specifically our foster children. She had a servant’s heart, and it was her mission to advocate for and help others. She will be deeply missed. My heart and prayers are with her husband, the people of Indiana, and the families and loved ones of Emma Thomson and Zach Potts."

Former Governor of Indiana and Vice President of the United States Mike Pence

"Karen Pence and I are heartbroken by the tragic passing of our dear friend Rep. Jackie Walorski. She served Indiana in the Statehouse and the Congress with integrity and principle for nearly two decades and will be deeply missed."

Former U.S. Senator for Indiana Dan Coats

“Marsha and I were shocked today to learn about the loss of three dedicated public servants. Over the years, I joined Jackie at parades and events, and we got to know each other well. I deeply respected Jackie’s passion to serve Hoosiers. She was a dynamic representative for northern Indiana who was valued and loved by all. On this tragic day, we mourn the loss of Jackie and her two staff members, and we pray for their family and friends.”

Former Governor of Indiana and Current President of Purdue University Mitch Daniels

“There could not be worse news. I’m heartsick at this tragedy. Jackie Walorski was a great public servant, a brave and constant ally for change during all my years in elected office, and a great representative of her district at both the state and national levels. I can’t say how much I’ll miss her.”

Chairwoman of the Republican National Committee Ronna McDaniel

"I am devastated to learn of the passing of my close friend, Congresswoman Jackie Walorski. She was an incredible public servant for Hoosiers and leader within the Republican Party."

President of the University of Notre Dame Rev. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C.

“The University community deeply mourns the tragic passing of U.S. Congresswoman Jackie Walorski. She was always a gracious and welcoming supporter of Notre Dame students in Washington, D.C., and frequently invited our faculty to testify on issues before Congress. 

“Congresswoman Walorski was also an advocate and supporter of key initiatives on campus, including the Notre Dame Wilson Sheehan Lab for Economic Opportunities and its important work of building evidence and data to strengthen anti-poverty intervention programs. 

“We pray for her and the other accident victims and their families, including Jackie’s husband, Dean. May God welcome them into eternal rest and give comfort to those who grieve their loss.”

President of Indiana University Pamela Whitten

"I am deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Congresswoman Jackie Walorski and my thoughts are with her family.

"Jackie and I spoke just says ago about IU partnering with her Women in STEM caucus to help recruit more young women into those fields. It is heartbreaking that she will not be able to carry on this important work that she was so dedicated to.

"A lifelong Hoosier and former IU South Bend employee, Jackie has long been a good friend to Indiana University. Her service to the South Bend community and the state contributed to a better future for us all."

Today, at its meeting in Chicago, Ill., the Republican National Committee honored the life of Rep. Jackie Walorski with an official resolution. The resolution was led by Chairman Kyle Hupfer, National Committeeman John Hammond, and National Committeewoman Anne Hathaway, and was unanimously adopted. 

Saturday, Aug. 13: Lincoln Lawn Party

Sunday, Aug. 14: Pike Township (Marion County) Annual Ice Cream Social

Thursday, Aug. 18: Perry-Spencer Picnic

Friday, Aug. 19: Indiana Federation of Republican Women Tribute to Women Dinner

Saturday, Aug. 20: Indiana Federation of Republican Women Statewide Meeting

Sunday, Sept. 18: Johnson County Chairman's GOP Rally & Cookout

PAID FOR BY THE INDIANA REPUBLICAN STATE COMMITTEE. WWW.INDIANA.GOP