VAN WERT — The Van Wert County Republican Party will host the 2026 American Freedom Dinner at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11 at the Walnut and Main Event Space, 223 E. Main St., Van Wert.

U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Urbana, will be the keynote speaker for the event, with Ohio Supreme Court Chief Justice Sharon Kennedy to follow. The congressman is up for re-election in November, and Van Wert County will become part of Ohio’s 4th Congressional District beginning in 2027.

Kennedy was elected chief justice in 2022 and has served on the Ohio Supreme Court since 2012.

The dinner will be catered by Gibson’s BBQ, and bar service is provided by Collins Fine Foods. Tickets are $60 for individuals or $100 for couples. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. and the program will follow the dinner at 6:30 p.m.

A VIP reception at 5 p.m. before the dinner is also being hosted at R Place Stone Grill, 138 E. Main St., Van Wert. Those tickets are $125 and include VIP reception, the dinner program and a photo with Jordan.

Table sponsorship is also available at $1,200 and includes eight VIP tickets and preferred seating.null

Tickets can be purchased online at www.vwgop.