(La Porte, IN) - The name of Tom Dermody is not on the list of 12 candidates vying for the seat in Congress vacated by the death of Jackie Walorski.

 

Dermody was encouraged by several supporters to run and listened to what they had to say but felt his place right now is in La Porte.

 

“I appreciated all of the phone calls and the calls for support to do it, but in the end, my heart is here in La Porte,” Dermody said.

Dermody also said he was committed to serving the over 16 months remaining on his term.

 

“I got another year and a quarter to go, a year and a half to go, and I plan on fulfilling that,” Dermody said.

Dermody said a lot had been accomplished since becoming mayor, and there are other good things he wants to help achieve for the city before his term expires.

 

Dermody has not yet endorsed any of the congressional candidates.

 

“I wish whoever wins and goes to Washington understands we need common sense individuals to get things done,” Dermody said.

Dermody, a former five-term state representative, said he has not officially decided whether to run for a second term, which expires at the same time the governor’s term expires. However, he did not also rule out the possibility of running for governor. 

 

“I’ve always showed an interest in the past to be that executive, but right now, my priority and focus is La Porte and being mayor.  It’s the best job in the best community,” Dermody said.