WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Statement from John Downs, president & CEO of the National Confectioners Association on the passing of U.S. Representative Jackie Walorski (IN-02) and her staff:

“We are shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of U.S. Representative Jackie Walorski, along with two members of her staff. She was a great supporter of our industry and champion for our member companies in Indiana, and she served as co-chair of the Congressional Candy Caucus since its inception. Her Hoosier hospitality and spirit were always on full display. Rep. Walorski’s constituents, this country and our industry will miss her infectious positive spirit and principled leadership tremendously. Our thoughts and condolences are extended to her loved ones and to the numerous friends with whom she served alongside in the U.S. House of Representatives, as well as to the families of the staff members who were also lost in this terrible accident.”

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About the National Confectioners Association (NCA):
The National Confectioners Association is the leading trade organization for the U.S. confectionery industry, which generates $42 billion in retail sales each year. NCA advocates for an environment that enables candy makers to thrive and works to ensure that chocolate, candy, gum and mints are celebrated for their contributions to culture, society, the economy and everyday moments of joy. The industry employs nearly 58,000 workers in more than 1,600 manufacturing facilities across all 50 states and supports an additional 635,000 jobs in related fields. The U.S. confectionery industry has made a commitment to increasing transparency, providing more portion guidance options and educating consumers about the role of confectionery in a happy, balanced lifestyle. Learn more at CandyUSA.com or follow NCA on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.