V23, N41 Thursday, June 14, 2018

HPI Horse Race: Braun/Donnelly tossup Morning Consult reelect numbers, Donnelly appeals reflect epic dogfight By BRIAN A. HOWEY NASHVILLE, Ind. – As In- diana Democrats gather for their biennial convention in Indianapo- lis Friday, the blunt force reality is that their hold on the only office voted on by all Hoosiers, the U.S. Senate seat, is now a tossup. U.S. Sen. Joe Donnelly (left) and Republican nominee Mike Braun are now in a tossup race. (HPI The Morning Consult “2018 Photos by Mark Curry) Midterm Wave Watcher” supplies some sta- also fraught with angst. “We know our emails have been tistical gist: Donnelly’s approve/ a little panicky lately, but we’re not exaggerating when we disapprove stood at 41/34%, say that Joe’s chances of winning in November are no bet- down from 43/30% in January. ter than a coin flip,” read one Team Donnelly fundraising But the real heartburn for Demo- appeal last week. crats is that 44% said it’s “time for Another notes: “Here’s the deal … The pollsters a new person” while 31% said Donnelly “deserves reelec- are calling this race a toss-up, and that means we’ve got tion.” Continued on page 3 The Donnelly campaign’s fundraising appeals are No arcane fights for Dems By SHAW FRIEDMAN LaPORTE – Despite some wishful recurring think- ing from my brethren on the other side of the aisle about some kind of Bernie vs. Hillary battle for the soul of the Democratic Party supposedly playing out, real insights by “Just landed - a long trip, but those who know organizing Indiana political campaigns everyone can now feel much safer realize that’s just not the case across much of Indiana. than the day I took office. There Unlike Hoosier Republi- is no longer a nuclear threat cans, who it appears spent a good deal of energy fighting from North Korea.” this past weekend at their - President Trump, convention about competing platform planks and do seem tweeting after his summit to have some real philosophi- cal splits playing out between with Kim Jong Un social conservatives and the Page 2 more moderate wing of the GOP, most on the campaign trail, he has thrived Hoosier Democrats understand we’re and flourished in his role as a U.S. not in any position to have these senator, maintained a sense of decen- arcane fights about who is sufficiently cy and purpose advocating for Hoo- purist to pass any kind of label to be a siers, and cast common-sense votes Democrat. that are squarely in the mainstream With control of the White of Hoosier thinking. With the vitriol House, both houses of Congress, the and nastiness that dominated the GOP Howey Politics Indiana governorship and the legislature in Senate primary making it one of the Republican hands, most Democrats I most bitterly contested in the nation, WWHowey Media, LLC 405 speak with around the state are ready that’s not easy to paper over on the Massachusetts Ave., Suite to come to Indianapolis this upcom- other side, and the recurring absence 300 Indianapolis, IN 46204 ing weekend with a needed show of of Congressman Luke Messer at vari- www.howeypolitics.com support for our newly minted state ous party functions speaks volumes ticket and to go out from there work- that indeed “all is not forgiven.” ing to make some gains both in the Democratic State Chairman Brian A. Howey, Publisher partisan makeup of the legislature and John Zody is being widely praised for Mark Schoeff Jr., Washington in picking up another seat or two in constructing a state ticket composed Cameron Carter, Editor Congress. of Valparaiso attorney Jim Harper for Joel Weyrauch, Editor Frankly, the enthusiasm secretary of state, former State Rep. Mary Lou Howey, Editor building around 2nd Congressional John Aguilera of East Chicago for District nominee Mel Hall (who won all treasurer and Joselyn Whitticker of Mark Curry, Daily Wire, photo 10 counties over his primary challeng- Marion for auditor. Harper comes from Jack E. Howey, Editor ers) and Liz Watson in the 9th (who a family of lawyers in Porter County Emeritus many believe will send Trey back to and seems articulate in espousing Tennessee) has been con- tagious. While there were Subscriptions some minor philosophical HPI, HPI Daily Wire $599 disputes that played out HPI Weekly, $350 in both primaries between HPI Mobile, $5.95 monthly contenders, there was no Ray Volpe, Account Manager bridge-burning that we saw that would poison 317.602.3620 one segment of the party email: [email protected] against another. There are solid nominees for the party as well in places like Contact HPI the 3rd District – Courtney [email protected] Tritch – who could break Liz Watson (left) and Mel Hall Howey’s cell: 317.506.0883 through if the wind is at Washington: 202.256.5822 our backs as many antici- Business Office: 317.602.3620 pate. more open and increased voter access There seems to be a sense and participation. Aguilera served that having U.S. Sen. Joe Donnelly at four years in the Indiana House and © 2018, Howey Politics the top of our state ticket will be a big was a productive member of the Lake Indiana. All rights reserved. help to Democrats running not just for County Council. He’s a former presi- Photocopying, Internet forward- Congress and legislature but also for dent of the Indiana Latino Institute. ing, faxing or reproducing in Democratic county candidates around Ms. Whitticker is a small business the state. No matter how many times owner and former school teacher and any form, whole or part, is a Republicans may chant, “Send Joe administrator. She’s a branch leader violation of federal law without Home,” most seasoned Republican for the NAACP and was elected to permission from the publisher. operatives will confess over a beer serve on the Marion city council. that Joe Donnelly is one of the most Democrats know that to experienced and hard-working cam- compete and win this year statewide, paigners they’ve ever seen. Always minor stylistic differences are going to the “Happy Warrior” who seems to have to be put aside and all segments thoroughly enjoy and relish his time will need to put their shoulders to the Page 3 wheel and advocate positions that resonate with hard- were successful in repealing the ACA, they’d keep those working Hoosier families. protections. The lawsuit filed by Indiana Attorney General That’s why I wouldn’t expect the kind of fight that Curtis Hill and the position taken this past week in a legal Republicans witnessed at their state convention occurring brief by the Trump-led Justice Department have demon- this next weekend. Instead, I would anticipate Democrats strated how fleeting and illusory those promises were. (Hill taking a strong stand in defending the Affordable Care Act, represents the far right wing of his party and his extrem- on which there is agreement across all segments of the ism has butted up against the more moderate and con- Democratic Party has been generally positive for Hoosiers sensus-building governor on several issues, whether they and yet which Republicans keep trying to kill because it be needle exchange programs or CBD oil, showcasing the emerged under President Obama. Most alarming was the sharp differences that exist between the two factions that brief filed by the Trump-Pence Justice Department just were on display this past weekend.) days ago that seeks to kill of one of the most popular parts Democrats know that protecting guarantees for of the act, that of preserving insurance coverage for those Hoosiers that their pre-existing health conditions will with pre-existing conditions. not be used as a basis to deny insurance coverage, and Despite the notable success of the Afford- fighting to preserve the ACA, are key mobilizing issues on able Care Act in not only expanding Medicaid coverage to which all Democrats – no matter where they fall on the 400,000 needy Hoosiers, the ACA brought peace of mind spectrum – can agree. I anticipate a highly unified and to an estimated 1.5 million Hoosiers in the private insur- energized group of Democrats leaving the Indiana Conven- ance marketplace who feared being denied coverage be- tion Center when all is said and done on Saturday after- cause of pre-existing medical conditions like heart disease, noon. v cancer and diabetes. Republicans campaigning in 2016 were aware of Shaw Friedman is a LaPorte attorney who is a just how popular those guarantees were and Indiana GOP former county Democratic chairman and who also congressional candidates as well as the Trump/Pence ticket served as legal counsel for the Indiana Democratic made numerous assurances to voters that even if they Party from 1999 to 2004.

Braun’s first month as a nominee. He has avoided all the Senate race, from page 1 blunders that Richard Mourdock committed in 2012 when an equally good chance of losing as we do of winning. I’ve he alienated the Lugar wing of the party, as well as the heard that before, though. After all, no one thought we’d incendiary rhetoric that prompted the National Republican win in 2012.” Senatorial Committee to assign handlers and keep him out The “blue wave” that had been a double-digit of joint appearances. Braun has financial resources. He’s advantage for Democrats until already running his first statewide TV ad for the general May, has turned into a “blue featuring his business and ripple,” as Republicans noted employees as an inocula- last week in Evansville. On tion against Democratic Wednesday Rasmussen Re- attacks that have already ports puts the congressional been unleashed. generic at 44-40% favoring The Mike Braun Democrats, Economist/YouGov we saw in Evansville was has it 43/37% and PPP puts it on message. While he did at 46/40%. Interestingly, Fox embrace the 2014/2016 News had the widest margin at platform language on 48/39% last Friday. marriage, and Donnelly will likely attempt to use that And there’s the emergence of Mike Braun as the against him, it will not be a determinate factor next fall. GOP nominee. HPI always believed he was the GOP’s best- This election will be a referendum on President Trump, the case scenario given the low congressional job approval economy, and how both the North Korean talks and Trump that would have hounded Reps. Luke Messer and Todd tariffs fare. Rokita. On Wednesday, PPP had it at 6% approve, 75% So HPI is reclassifying this race. Donnelly is a disapprove while Rasmussen had it at 13% approve. Braun strong campaigner, many Republicans have been telling is not only unhampered by the abysmal congressional ap- us they could vote for him. But many of those Republicans proval, he will turn the tables, using it against Donnelly. will return to the party if the Indiana seat is deemed the Part of our rationale for keeping the Senate race race that could determine control of the Senate. We don’t in a “Leans Donnelly” assessment is we wanted to watch know whether a report from Special Counsel Robert Muel- ler will be damning on Trump and the GOP, and we don’t Page 4 know the impacts of the Trump tariffs. There are a number torney General Holder’s focus on ending gerrymandering.” of scenarios where Donnelly could be reelected. But that will hardly be a clarion issue for voters in the fall. But this is going to be a pure dogfight, between Democrats do have some positives going into this two extremely credible and well-finance candidates.HPI cycle. They recruited 103 General Assembly candidates, Horse Race: Tossup. compared to 83 in 2014. There are three female congres- sional nominees and one, 9th CD nominee Liz Watson Braun’s first TV ad has a shot at winning, particularly if a Democrat wave Braun released his first television advertisement develops. When HPI presented its initial House and Sen- of the general election, titled “Here at Home.” The ad will ate forecasts in May, most of the candidates had websites air zcross the state. Filmed in his hometown of Jasper, the and Facebook pages, a departure from past cycles when a ad features Braun discussing Meyer and why it goes “the number of nominees had no online presence. Democrats extra mile to protect have 52 female legislative candidates, up its employees.” Braun from 22 in 2014, and have 27 Millennial says in the ad, “Here candidates, up from nine in 2014. at home, our busi- While Democrat insiders insist ness means jobs for that this weekend is all about the 2018 neighbors. Better mid-terms, the sub-plot will be who is paychecks means likely to emerge for the 2020 gubernato- stronger families and rial race. Thus far, only 2012 and 2016 stronger communi- nominee John Gregg has been active on ties. Our responsibil- social media and stumping for candidates ity is to each other this year, though 2016 lieutenant gov- and Washington ernor nominee Christina Hale has been shirked its respon- active on the county dinner circuit. South sibility to us. You know, nothing changes and the politi- Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg is preparing for a presidential cians stay the same. It’s time we change that. At Meyer, run, having met with former President Barack Obama, who we create paychecks for families, provide excellent health has reached out to nine potential contenders. Hammond care and nearly double the minimum wage. My employees Mayor Thomas McDermott, Jr. did not respond to an HPI are proud to call Meyer home because we treat them like inquiry on whether he might seek the nomination. Other family. Special interests, funded by Schumer’s money and potential contenders would include Indianapolis Mayor Joe aligned with Donnelly, insult my employees when they Hogsett and former Evansville mayor Jonathan Weinzapfel. smear Meyer. It’s a disgrace, but it’s what you come to Earlier this year, Chairman Zody said that a serious expect from a career politician fighting for his political life.” 2020 gubernatorial nominee should be out stumping for mid-term candidates. Thus far, only Gregg and Hale are Indiana Democrats convene working that circuit. Hoosier Democrats convene for what will be their most critical election cycle since 2010 when U.S. Sen. Buttigieg getting married Saturday Evan Bayh’s bolt from the ticket began the party’s de- South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg, a rising star in scent into super minority status and, perhaps, since 1986 the Democratic party, will marry his partner Chasten Glez- when a young Bayh emerged as the secretary of state man on Saturday, as the city’s LGBT Pride week comes to nominee. Two years later, Bayh would end a generational an end (IndyStar). The 36-year-old also will be notably Republican stranglehold on the Statehouse. missing from the Indiana Democratic Party State Conven- On Saturday, Democrats will nominate Jim Harper tion, which is the same day in Indianapolis. The couple is of Valparaiso for secretary of state, former East Chicago getting married at The Cathedral of Saint James Episcopal legislator John Aguilera for treasurer and former Marion church at 4 p.m. Saturday. The ceremony will be carried City Council President Joselyn Whitticker for auditor. All will on the church’s live stream. (Search “St. James South be distinct underdogs in their races against Secretary of Bend” at youtube.com.) State Connie Lawson, Treasurer Kelly Mitchell and Auditor Tera Klutz. Congress Former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder will address the convention at 2:30 p.m. Saturday. Holder is 4th CD: Baird attends White House signing chair of the National Democratic Redistricting Committee, State Rep. Jim Baird (R-Greencastle) was at the a collaborative effort to end gerrymandering. “Indiana is White House Wednesday when a new VA bill was signed ground zero for the fight to ensure fair elections and redis- into law (Greencastle Banner-Graphic). President Donald tricting reform,” Indiana Democratic Chairman John Zody Trump signed the VA Mission Act of 2018. Besides being said. “I know Hoosier Democrats will be excited to hear At- the state representative for District 44, Baird is also the Page 5

Republican nominee to be the next U.S. congressman from Bray’s pro tem margin was 27-14 Indiana’s 4th District. In November, he will face off against Multiple sources have refuted a report that Sen. Democrat Tobi Beck of Avon. Horse Race Status: Safe Rodric Bray defeated Sen. Travis Holdman by a single vote Baird. for the Senate president pro tempore position on May 14. A source told HPI after sine die that the margin was a single 8th CD: Tanoos calls for reefer legalization vote. But several informed and reliable sources say the fi- William Tanoos, Democratic candidate for Con- nal margin was 27-14. Senate President Pro Tempore David gress in Indiana’s 8th District, has come out in favor of Long participated in the vote, which came even though the legalization of marijuana (Taylor, Terre Haute Tribune- there will be four new senators when the official vote oc- Star). His opponent, incumbent U.S. Rep. Larry Bucshon, curs the day after the November election. Democrats will R-Newburgh, made it clear he remains opposed. Tanoos, participate in that vote. a Terre Haute attorney, has stated his position in a video on his campaign website in which he expressed the belief Local the action would help fight the opioid crisis and provide a boost to Hoosier farmers. “Taxing and regulating [mari- Hermann, Levco clash in Vanderburgh juana] is the safe and fiscally responsible thing to do,” he Stan Levco and Nick Hermann will trade stinging added. “It will alleviate the burdens of our criminal justice critiques of their respective tenures in the Vanderburgh system.” Tanoos concluded the 30-second video, produced County prosecutor’s office as they battle for a third time to as a campaign commercial that also appears on YouTube, become the people’s advocate in court (Langhorne, Evans- by saying legalizing marijuana could help a veteran and is ville Courier & Press). That much was clear from Democrat “simply … the right thing to do.” In an interview this week, Levco’s brief announcement at the Old Courthouse that he he called marijuana legalization “a matter of common will challenge Republican prosecutor Hermann this year, sense policy.” HPI Horse Race: Safe Bucshon. and from Hermann’s response immediately afterward. The men are longtime antagonists. Hermann unsuccessfully 9th CD: Hollingsworth mum on debating challenged Levco when the latter was in office in 2006. In Democrat Liz Watson’s campaign is saying U.S. 2010, he succeeded in ousting Levco. Now, after several Rep. Trey Hollingsworth is ignoring its call for debates. years as a statewide special prosecutor, Levco is the one “Back on May 23rd the Liz for Indiana campaign officially challenging Hermann. He took to that task with a whoop invited Trey Hollingsworth to debate Liz in all 13 coun- and a holler Thursday, calling Hermann incompetent, inef- ties,” campaign manager Brian Peters told HPI. “We got a fective and a self-promoter. “One thing I believe Mr. Her- reply on June 1 saying the congressman was interested in mann has done well is to promote himself. He’s buried the debating, and that they would take a serious look at every ineffectiveness of his office in commercials, publicity efforts invitation. We have sent the Hollingsworth campaign seven and We Tip promotions. It doesn’t matter how many tips dates. We made sure the dates were on days where no he gets if he can’t convict,” Levco said. “... I will devote my votes are scheduled, and we have reached out to a few of efforts to effective prosecution, not self-promotion.” Shortly you to partner up. My plan was to partner with local media afterward in his office, Hermann said voters rejected Levco to make sure the debates were fair to both campaigns. We in 2010 because the Democrat wasn’t aggressive enough in have gotten zero responses. We will continue to reach out charging decisions and at trial. “The reason I left his office to his campaign because this election is important.” Horse (as a deputy prosecutor in 2004) was, I had a big case, Race Status: Leans Hollingsworth. something I had been working on, and it was taken in and pleaded without my knowledge, without the case file, by General Assembly another attorney the day before we were supposed to go to trial. I was reading about it in the paper,” Hermann said. HD26: Democrat emerges State Democratic Party leaders on Tuesday called Mayor: Valparaiso councilwoman running for a June 27 caucus to slate a vacancy in Indiana House With a platform of making Valparaiso more wel- District 26 in the November election, signaling that Chris come to all, City Councilwoman Deb Porter announced her Campbell of West Lafayette plans to run (Bangert, Lafay- candidacy for mayor Monday evening on the steps of City ette Journal & Courier). Campbell will challenge first term Hall (Lavalley, Post-Tribune). Introduced by fellow Council- Rep. Sally Siegrist. John Zody, chairman of the Indiana woman Diana Reed, D-1st, and surrounded by about three Democratic Party, said Campbell, a member of the West dozen supporters, including members of the Portage City Lafayette Redevelopment Commission, would file her Council, Porter pledged to increase accessibility throughout candidacy Wednesday. On Tuesday, Campbell removed the city for people seeking affordable housing and those her name as a candidate for the Wabash Township Board. with disabilities, as well as tackling the community’s ongo- Horse Race Status: Leans Siegrist. ing opioid epidemic and making city government more responsive. Page 6

Mayor: Jensen declares in Noblesville Chris Jensen, a life-long Noblesville resident, of- Trump’s mission acompli ficially announced his candidacy for mayor of Noblesville. By BRIAN A. HOWEY Jensen made this special announce- NASHVILLE, Ind. – Some how, some way in the ment to a group of supporters curiously twisted mind of President Donald J. Trump, which included guest speakers Canada is deserving of disrespect, derision and PM Justin State Sen. Luke Kenley and State Trudeau has a “special place in hell” awaiting him. Rep. Kathy Richardson at BlueSky And Kim Jong Un is to be trusted. Technology Partners. “Our city is “He trusts me and I trust him,” growing and is facing new oppor- Trump told ABC’s George Stephano- tunities and challenges. I believe I polous. This comes after decades of am the right person to lead our city North Korean deception, lies, brutal- into its next chapter,” said Jensen. ity and evasions. This is the same Currently, Jensen is the Noblesville Kim who ordered the murders of his Common Council President, and deputy premier for education (by has served on the finance, parks, firing squad), Gen. Hyon Yong-chol economic development and roads (excuted by an anti-aircraft gun), his committees over the last two years. brother Kim Jong-nam (assassinated As mayor, Jensen would bring transparency and a fresh in a Malyasian airport) and uncle vision. His background in the public and private sectors, Jang Song-thaek (killed by anti-aircraft gun and inciner- working closely with government entities, have played a ated by flamethrowers) while 120,000 endure torture and strong role in his decision to run for mayor. Prior to his hard labor in four political prisons. current role as a client service manager for Lochmueller Trump also trusts Russian President Vladimir Group, Jensen served many years in the office of former Putin, who has been implicated in the murders of dozens Lt. Governor Becky Skillman as special sssistant and direc- of political opponents and journalists, annexed Crimea, in- tor of intergovernmental affairs. Jensen was also executive vaded Ukraine while shooting down a commerical airliner director of the 2016 Indiana Bicentennial Commission. and runs a kleptocracy. Oh, and Putin orchestrated the meddling in the 2016 U.S. election. National New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman ob- serves, “Trump just picked a fight with our closest NATO Sen. Young eyes NRSC helm allies, including Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Sen. Todd Young, a freshman senator from a whom Trump’s team said ‘stabbed us in the back’ after battleground state, is talking to colleagues about becom- Trudeau’s mild-mannered defense of his own country’s ing the next chairman of the National Republican Senato- trade policy on dairy imports. This after Trump has had rial Committee, according to Republican sources (The Hill). nary a word of censure for Russia’s President Vladimir Pu- Young helped Republicans keep their majority two years tin, who stabbed us in the chest with the biggest cyberat- ago by defeating former Democratic Sen. Evan Bayh, who tack on our democracy ever.” was the heavy favorite initially, to win election to the Sen- Trump had his Bush43 “mission accomplished” ate in the 2016 cycle. Bayh had an early 20-point lead in moment when he tweeted, “Everyone can now feel much the race as well as more than $9 million in his campaign safer than the day I took office. There is no longer a account from his previous time in the Senate. Young de- nuclear threat from North Korea.” After just one meeting! fied early predictions by defeating Bayh by 10 points, 52 Just like “mission accomplished” came back percent to 42%. “There are a lot of members who re- to haunt Bush by the 2006 mid-terms when the Iraq ally like the idea of him doing it. He’s the giant-killer, he insurgency went haywire, Trump has set himself up for knocked off Evan Bayh when nobody thought he could do embarrassment if Kim follows the model of his father it with less money,” said a GOP source. and grandfather. The Trump campaign declared, “History will demonstrate that the historic summit ... was an end Pence raises $3.2M product of President Trump’s bold and vigilant leadership.” Vice President Mike Pence and House Majority The Weekly Standard’s Stephen Hayes observes, Leader Kevin McCarthy raised $3.2 million last night in “We can all hope that history records the summit this way. their “Protect The House” program. Protect the House is a But the certitude in the Trump campaign statement, like committee designed to help vulnerable House Republicans. the cocky assurances from the president himself, ignores v the recent history of negotiations with North Korea. And another failure, with the president having staked so much of his credibility and that of the United States, could be catastrophic.” v Page 7

then minority leader in the Indiana House (and had been That wild 1968 Indiana speaker just two years prior), and sitting Lt. Gov. Robert Rock. While serving as speaker in 1965, Bodine had at- tracted the support of Indiana Democratic Party Chairman Democrat convention Gordon St. Angelo, who deemed Bodine a better successor By TREVOR FOUGHTY to popular Democratic governor Roger Branigin than Rock. EVANSVILLE – For political junkies, it’s the 1968 For the next three years, St. Angelo and other Democratic Indiana Republican Convention that best exemplifies a sort officials effectively put the full weight of the state commit- of golden age for state convention floor fights. The guber- tee behind Bodine, even going so far as to endorse a slate natorial battle on the GOP side that year is well-remem- of candidates headed by Bodine in the days leading up to bered because it was a hotly contested race between the the convention. sitting secretary of state (Edgar Given this longstanding establishment support, Whitcomb) and the sitting speaker coupled with Bodine’s high profile as a House speaker, it of the Indiana House (Otis Bow- was easy to see Rock’s candidacy as the quixotic efforts of en), both of whom would eventu- a jilted lieutenant governor. But what was expected to be a ally become beloved governors relatively easy victory for Bodine at the June 21 convention (less well-remembered is that ended up shocking the Hoosier political world when Rock future U.S. Agriculture Secretary narrowly edged Bodine 953-951 for a two-vote victory. Earl Butz was a third candidate in Adding insult to injury, 28 delegates failed to vote at all, that race). with most of them coming from the Lake County delega- It’s also remembered tion that favored Bodine. because it marked a sort of state- In one apocryphal accounting of how such an wide coming out party for Keith upset could occur (oft-repeated amongst Democrats and Bulen, who helped engineer a co- published in a 2002 edition of Howey Politics Indiana) 23 alition of large county delegations that backed a success- Lake County delegates were so confident in Bodine’s vic- ful slate of candidates led by Whitcomb. Bulen had made tory that they skipped out on the convention to hang out a name for himself in Indianapolis after winning election at the hotel pool. While such a version of events makes as a state representative in 1960, wresting control of the for a good story, it’s tough to verify. Newspaper coverage Marion County party from the iron grip of Dale Brown in of the convention noted the missing delegates but didn’t 1964, and orchestrating a mayoral victory for an untested speak to where they might have been. Additionally, neither young candidate named Dick Lugar in 1967, but his sights campaign pointed to the missing delegates at all in their were set much higher. The 1968 convention would end with Bulen being named the Republican national com- mitteeman from Indiana, which in turn would build his profile nationally and place him in the orbit of Presidents Nixon and Reagan. The 1968 Republican race for governor stands out as much for its place in the significant Bulen mythology that would build over the subsequent three decades as it does for any candidates involved. But while most people might best recall the Republican convention, it wasn’t as dramatic as most think. Whitcomb won on the first ballot with 1,260 votes, with Bowen and Butz finishing well behind with 527 and 429 votes, respectively. In truth, it was actually the 1968 Indiana Democratic Party convention that produced a floor fight to be remembered, both because it featured a colossal upset and because it ended with what’s probably the narrowest margin of victory ever seen in a state convention. That race featured a matchup between heavy House Minority Leader Dick Bodine (left) and Lt. Gov. Robert Rock riding donkeys at the Indiana favorite Dick Bodine, who was State Fair. Page 8 post-race analysis. essentially freed the Kennedy delegates. Two More importantly, though, the weeks later, supporters of Eugene McCarthy, the “swimmin’ delegates” theory fails to address runner-up and only other serious candidate in why such a presumptive favorite ended up the Indiana primary, flooded into Indianapolis to in such a close contest. Fortunately, that demand the convention send McCarthy-aligned answer is easier to verify; according to delegates to the national convention in Chicago lieutenant governor nominee James Beatty instead of Humphrey-aligned delegates. at a press conference after the event, “It Despite demonstrations and protests was obviously more of a vote against Gordon both inside and outside the convention hall that than against Dick.” Many delegates were would foreshadow the riots to come in Chicago apparently bothered that the state chairman that August, at one point a group of McCarthy would endorse a slate of candidates and try supporters violently stormed the stage in an to force his will on the convention, so they attempt to take control of the convention. St. turned the gubernatorial race into a bit of a Angelo manipulated the convention to ensure Longtime Democratic protest vote. the vast majority of delegates would be Humphrey Chairman Gordon St. Also, news reports surfaced just loyalists. While St. Angelo would make a point of Angelo. days prior to the convention that alleged saying he would give the McCarthy forces four or St. Angelo had cut a deal with the Marion five delegates, that gesture was seen as hollow County party. In exchange for getting the Marion County and the McCarthyites were set on making him pay. They delegates to vote as a bloc for the slate, the state party would exact their revenge on Bodine, with McCarthy’s In- would forgive tens of thousands of dollars in outstanding diana spokesman taking credit for Rock’s victory once the assessment fees the local party owed. And, just for good convention ended. measure, St. Angelo also put the Marion County chair- Though bruised, neither St. Angelo nor Bodine man, Beatty, on the slate for lieutenant governor. While was beaten. St. Angelo would spend the rest of the year St. Angelo and Beatty both denied any such deal existed, as co-campaign manager for Humphrey’s campaign and the reports created backlash in two ways: First, out-state help him secure the nomination. He continued to serve as delegates resented Marion County getting a special deal on the state chair until 1974 and ended his 10-year tenure as paying hefty assessments; and second, after Beatty failed the longest serving chair in state history. Bodine wasn’t a in his attempt to cast the Marion County votes as a bloc, candidate for the state legislature in 1968 because of his many of “his” delegates revolted against being told how to gubernatorial bid, but he won back his seat in 1970 and vote. The Marion County impact hit especially hard. While was immediately re-installed as minority leader. Bodine was expected to carry most of the delegation, the Rock would lose to Whitcomb in November, Bowen final tally showed more than a third of the 262 votes going would succeed Whitcomb, and Bulen would help ensure for Rock. that Republicans would hold the governor’s office for 20 While the delegates bristled against St. Angelo’s years straight. As a result, popular history has mostly heavy-handedness on the state races, it was his handling forgotten about the Democratic convention of that year of the presidential race that caused the most backlash. St. and made the Republican convention more monumental Angelo was close to Lyndon Johnson’s White House and he in hindsight. Whether you prefer the hotel pool or the hoped to play a critical role in nominating Vice President convention floor, if you’re a political junkie then the Demo- Hubert Humphrey at the national convention once Johnson cratic convention had most of the action. v declined to run for reelection. But Humphrey wasn’t yet an announced candidate when Robert Kennedy entered the Foughty is an Indiana University employee and race and made Indiana the first state in which he would be blogs at CapitolandWashington.com. on the primary ballot. In an effort both to deny Indiana’s delegates to Kennedy and to promote Brani- gin as a potential vice presidential pick, St. Angelo convinced Branigin to run for president in the Indiana primary as a “favorite son” candi- date. While this plan failed when Kennedy won the primary and Branigin, widely seen as a Humphrey stand-in—only gar- nered about 3% of the vote, RFK’s assassination a month later Page 9

intense primary in May. “You can count on me. I’m going Highlights from there for the right reasons, not for the perks and pay. I’ll get a raise if I go to the U.S. Senate. Let the Democrats chew on that one. You’ll be proud of me when I retire Joe the GOP convention Donnelly.” Delegates began chanting, “Send Joe home! By BRIAN A. HOWEY Send Joe home!” EVANSVILLE – Indiana’s Republican Convention Off in the wings as Braun spoke was U.S. Rep. was a streamlined event that accentuated its “Party of Pur- Todd Rokita, one of two congressmen he defeated in the pose” slogan. For the second consecutive mid-term cycle, primary. U.S. Rep. Luke Messer was not on hand, thus it nominated an all-female statewide ticket. denying the unity optic. U.S. Senate nominee Mike Braun traced his busi- Braun recounted growing up in Jasper, graduating ness roots from Wabash College, Harvard Business School from Wabash College and Harvard Business School, then and back home again to Jasper and was lauded by Gov. returning home to go into business. He called Jasper a city Eric Holcomb, and GOP Chairs Kyle Hupfer and Ronna “where the schools are great and you really don’t lock your McDaniel. Party leaders paid homage to President Trump and Vice Presi- dent Pence, with McDaniel assert- ing, “He’s improved our standing as a global leader by pulling out of Syria and ending the Iran deal” at the very time Trump was lash- ing out at Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and bolting from the G-7 communique. But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Holcomb and Hupfer tried to engineer a new “Strong Fami- lies” plank that recognized single parents, grandparents and non- traditional parents (i.e., gays) that was vociferously opposed by the Gov. Holcomb and Chairman Hupfer laud the Republican ticket of Kelly Mitchell, Tera Klutz, Con- GOP’s obviously dominant social- nie Lawson and Mike Braun. (HPI Photos by Mark Curry) conservative wing. A voice vote on the convention floor wasn’t even close as the delegates doors. It was the smartest thing we ever did. I avoided upheld Pence-era language on marriage between a man Wall Street and big corporations. I was hired at a company and woman. and the guy said, ‘You stick around and you’ll run it some Same-sex marriage has been legal in Indiana and day.’ In 1981, Braun bought a flagging company housed in the U.S. for four years. There was speculation that Hol- a building built in 1937. His office was in a mobile home comb sought the nuanced change while Indianapolis is in outside “and we kept our records in a bathtub.” That busi- the running for the Amazon HQ2. So, the impact could be ness was doing $26 million a year when he bought it, and negligible and confined to several news cycles, or it could now it turns $2.7 billion annually. Braun added, “We’ve be profound if Amazon opts for a more liberal to moder- got to undo one of the biggest boondoggles in govern- ate region. If that story line were to emerge, it could have ment, which is Obamacare, but we have to have a plan to broader political ramifications. replace it.” Here are convention highlights: Strong families plank Braun cites his roots Party moderates attempted to change the plan GOP Senate nominee Mike Braun vowed to retire reflecting more family combinations, including single par- U.S. Sen. Joe Donnelly when he addressed the Indiana ents, grandparents and gay couples. By an emphatic voice Republican Convention Saturday morning. Braun called vote, the social conservatives easily prevailed. Holcomb the tax reforms passed last December the “signature piece said on Thursday, “The Indiana Republican Party is big and of legislation” of this generation. He noted that Donnelly diverse, with many different perspectives on issues we all voted against the reforms. Donnelly has insisted that the care about. The debate over the past week regarding this reforms favored the rich over middle-class Hoosiers. year’s party platform only reinforces that fact. Ultimately, “Joe Donnelly will vote with Nancy Pelosi and though, the process of adopting a platform will end the Chuck Schumer,” said the Jasper businessman who won an way it always ends, with the delegates who attend and Page 10 participate making the final decision.” nating for a second time an all-female statewide ticket. Permanent Chairman Ed Simcox allowed only two We did this four years ago, too, but the ticket looked just advocates on the two proposed planks to have a minute a little different then. It still had Connie Lawson and Kelly and 15 seconds to present their case. Mitchell, but instead of Tera Klutz, there was Suzanne Porter County Chairman Mike Simpson told the Crouch. And she’s turned out all right, hasn’t she?” convention, “There are many strong families not cen- All three statewide candidates were unopposed tered on a man and woman,” citing “grandparents, single and unanimously confirmed. Lawson will face Democrat parents.” He called the first option “more inclusive, by Jim Harper of Valparaiso. Mitchell will be opposed by not ignoring any family, without the exclusion of man and former legislator John Aguilera of East Chicago while Klutz woman. We can continue to litigate this issue convention will face Democrat former Marion Council President Joselyn after convention or we can stand up for this ideal.” But Whitticker. Morgan County Chairman Daniel Elliott said of the 2016 Lawson said of the state culling voter lists, “Some version, “The 2016 strong families language supports strong families, as man and woman, as well as single parents, loving adults. Most families are headed by married couples. This language has been vetted by 2016 and 2014 del- egates. It is an important part of who we are.” The social conserva- tives’ Victory Committee rallied to a packed conference room Fri- day night, drawing Senate nomi- nee Mike Braun, Attorney General Curtis Hill and U.S. Reps. Todd Rokita and Jim Banks. The Brauns along with Attorney General Curtis Hill and attorney Jim Bopp Jr., at Friday night’s The voice vote was over- rally supporting the 2014/2016 family plank. whelmingly for the 2014 and 2016 language, which reads: “We believe, in strong families. We Democrats are attacking me, saying we are suppressing believe that strong families, based on marriage between a the vote. Not one single person has come forward to say man and a woman, are the foundation of society. We also they were removed improperly. Every eligible citizen who recognize that some families are much more diverse and takes on responsibility deserves to have that vote counted, we support the blended families, grandparents, guardians, counted accurately and not have it diminished by fraud. single parents and loving adults who successfully raise and We won’t stop. Every vote matters and I need your help.” nurture children to reach their full potential every day.” Permanent convention Chairman Ed Simcox said, “She is Indiana Democrats said that Holcomb and Hupfer one of the best secretary of states ever to serve. Maybe were “out-muscled” by the conservative advocacy groups. the best.” “Holcomb’s hand-picked party chairman had earlier ma- Tera Klutz’s convention video, revealing an over- neuvered to remove the language but was outflanked by caffeinated CPA startling Hoosiers with her sheer enthusi- hardline Republicans including Rep. Mike Braun, Attorney asm, was one of the best we’ve seen in recent years. And General Curtis Hill and Speaker Brian Bosma,” the party Treasurer Mitchell recounted said. Indiana Democratic Chairman John Zody said he was her family’s circus history, tell- surprised the first-term governor ceded his role as leader ing delegates that a forward of the Party so easily. “He’s either unwilling or was out- flip on the high-wire is harder muscled, but at a critical moment to lead his party, Gov. than a back flip. “I come from Holcomb stepped back.” a family that owns circuses,” she told delegates. “My Another all-female statewide ticket grandfather was one of five Republican delegates officially christened its sec- men in the country that could ond consecutive mid-term slate of female statewide candi- do a back and a front flip on dates. Chairman Hupfer said, “We are lucky this weekend the high-wire. Do you know to be making Hoosier history in two different ways. First, that the front flip is harder? we are hosting our convention in Evansville for the very Do you know why? You can’t first time – only the second time it’s ever been held out- see where your feet are go- side of Indianapolis. But, more importantly, we are nomi- ing. Well I can tell you, and Page 11 anyone in here who has run for office can tell for the first time since removing himself for you, running for office is a front flip.” consideration for the gubernatorial nomi- nation in July 2016 after Gov. Mike Pence Holcomb’s convention as governor withdrew to accept the vice-presidential “I’ve stood before this convention nod. Prior to Pence’s withdrawal, Bosma many times before obviously wearing many would have been considered a strong hats. Never have I been as excited as stand- contender in a Republican primary in 2020, ing before you as governor,” said Gov. Hol- given his fundraising prowess and his comb, addressing the GOP convention for the statewide network of 70 House members. first time as Indiana’s chief executive. He was But the 2016 nomination was decided by lieutenant governor in 2016 when he was nominated along the Republican Central Committee, where Bosma and with Gov. Mike Pence, who then was chosen by Donald Senate President David Long had ruffled enough members Trump for the national ticket. Holcomb said, “This has that his candidacy and quest for 12 votes was a non-start- never been a more exciting time to be a Hoosier. We are e r. rowing in the same direction. That’s why we are all here. Bosma compared the pre-Mitch Daniels era of We know what it’s going to take if we’re going to take Indiana in 2004 to the present, noting that the state was Indiana to the next level.” tops in bankruptcies and had a combined “deficit of $1.3 billion.” Bosma said the state’s business climate is “best in Hupfer boasts of party finances the Midwest and fifth in the nation. We’re second in the Chairman Hupfer made this astonishing claim nation in increase in software jobs, second in the nation while introducing Chairwoman McDaniel: “The Democratic in the small business index.” He cited Forbes magazine’s National Committee has less cash on hand net than our designation of Indianapolis as tops for technology jobs. Indiana Republican Party.” “We are the only state in the nation with a fully funded 20-year construction plan without debt on ourselves or our children,” Bosma said. And he cited U.S. News & World Bosma’s assessment Report that “says we’ve got the best state government in Speaker Brian Bosma addressed the convention the nation. You have to have strong majorities and super Page 12 majorities in the House and Senate to make this happen,” Bosma said as delegates roared with approval. RNC Chair McDaniel John Hostettler’s impact on the GOP takes aim at Donnelly We didn’t see former congressman John Hostettler in Evansville last weekend, but his impact on the Indiana By BRIAN A. HOWEY GOP has been profound. It includes Gov. Holcomb, U.S. EVANSVILLE – Republican National Committee Rep. Jim Banks, financier Jeff Knight, Curt Smith of the Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel sought to energize Hoosier Indiana Family Institute, Evansville Deputy Mayor Steve Republicans in Evansville Saturdaymorning. At one point Shaefer, Gibson County Prosecutor Rob Krieg, State Rep. she urged delegates to reach for Thomas Washburne, Evansville attorney and HPI colum- their smartphones. “We can use nist Joshua Claybourn, and Chris Crabtree, current aide to your help: Go to GOP.com and vol- Banks and former aide to Gov. Mike Pence. unteer. If you have a phone, get it out, text RNC80810. This will be a The Sikhs debut great way for us to energize you The recent Indiana Republican State Convention and this is how we’ll elect Mike holds the distinction of having the first two delegates from Braun.” the Hoosier Sikh community. SikhsPAC Chairman Gurinder McDaniel, niece of 2012 Republican presidential Singh Khalsa and his wife, Gagandeep Kaur, represented nominee Mitt Romney, told delegates she came up through the Sikh community throughout the event. “As Sikhs, the precinct ranks to chair the Michigan GOP. Michigan, we believe passionately in the importance of serving our along with Wisconsin and Pennsylvania, turned out to be community and our fellow citizens,” said Khalsa. “Gagan- pivotal as the so-called “blue wall” cracked in 2016, giving deep and I were honored to be the first representatives of the presidency to Donald Trump in stunning fashion. Hoosier Sikhs to participate in this important event, and She called this November’s election “historic” say- we know that being active in politics and government is ing, “All the gains we’ve made can be erased. We have a positive, productive way our work cut out for us to make sure Nancy Pelosi doesn’t to give back to the United become speaker. Our first order of business is to send Mike States and to protect our Braun to the Senate. Our president needs more help. It’s great democracy. We’re time to send Joe Donnelly home.“ also pleased to help the She added, “Donnelly was rated the least effective GOP expand its reach as far Democrat. He has not passed a single bill. He says he’s as diversity and inclusive- pro-life, but then sends money to Planned Parenthood. ness, which is necessary Mike Braun does not out-source jobs to Mexico. Mike in today’s world.” Khalsa Braun supports President Trump’s tax cuts while Donnelly emphasized the Sikh com- opposed the tax cuts.” munity’s focus on improving “Mike Braun is ready to fight for you in Washing- Indiana through hard work ton and President Trump needs him in Washington,” the and dedicated action. “We are Hoosiers. We’re committed former Michigan Republican chair said. to making this state a better place to live, to work, and to She told delegates, “I wake up every day think- raise families. We do this with open, honest hearts and a ing, I am so glad Hillary Clinton is not our president. And commitment to the well-being of our neighbors,” he said. I have a second thought, I am so glad Donald J. Evansville shines Trump is our president. We celebrated his first The convention was a splendid showcase for 500 days in office and a Evansville Mayor Lloyd Winnecke and his right-hand man, lot has happened to make Deputy Mayor Steve Schaefer. Aarazu on Main had terrific our country greater.” Mediterranean cuisine. The breakfast at Comfort by Cross- She ticked off a eyed Cricket was excellent and we ended our stay at the list of accomplishments: A riverfront pub by USS LST 325 as gales lashed and white strong military, “he’s tak- caps stormed across the Ohio River. The Ford Center is a ing care of our veterans, true gem, the city is looking good and by the time the new that’s why he passed the Hyatt Hotel and the medical campus are complete, Evans- Veteran’s Accountability Act. He’s improved our standing ville is poised to be a fabulous regional hub and the pride as a global leader by pulling out of Syria and ending the of Indiana. As we expected, all the folks we met in Evans- Iran deal. Our economy has been kicked started with three ville gave us a tremendous dose of Hoosier Hospitality. We million new jobs. GDP is up, consumer confidence is up. can’t wait to come back! v People are feeling better because they have more money Page 13 in their paycheck.” to be a drop-off so it’s about which party can After her convention speech, energize their voters to get them to actually go she fielded questions from the Hoo- vote. That’s why you have to build an infra- sier press: structure and that’s why the RNC being in this Abdul Hakim Shabazz state early, emphasizing the building of that of Indy Politics: President Trump infrastructure, is going to be important. gave out a shout-out to Sen. Don- HPI: What does Vice President Pence nelly when he signed the Right to Try mean here in Indiana? The impact here and legislation earlier this month. You said also nationally? Donnelly hadn’t passed a bill. McDaniel: I think having Vice President McDaniel: The reality is Pence coming back to Indiana, coming back to Joe Donnelly would vote for Chuck his home state to share with voters the im- Schumer to be Senate majority leader. portance of needing another Republican in the Chuck Schumer is far from Indiana Senate, of electing Mike Braun, will be a huge values. Joe Donnelly may act like he’s asset for us in turning out our vote and keeping the president’s friend right now when that energy into November. he’s got to get elected, but when it comes down to it, he’s HPI: I’ve heard him describe himself as with the most liberal New York senator in charge of the the “tip of the spear.” Is he literally going to be the point Senate and I don’t think that’s what Hoosiers want. man for the RNC? HPI: How are you going to get the Republican McDaniel: Yes. The vice president has an exhaus- Party energized? I saw you wanted delegates to text to the tive scheduled planned to get out and campaign across the RNC to get on their volunteer lists. country. But I think Indiana is going to be a state near and McDaniel: We want to reach out to voters via dear to his heart, with his brother running here, and then texts, but it’s going to be about ground game. We’ve the possibility of picking up a Senate seat. Nobody knows already got 27 staff on the ground here in Indiana. We’re better than the vice president how narrow those margins building a full field program out. We’re using our data to are in the Senate when he’s often the tie-breaking vote, determine who our likely voters are, who our persuadable being the president of the Senate. This is something he’s voters are, and we build a field program to engage and going to have to help with as much as possible. talk and persuade those voters to go vote Mike Braun. Abdul: How will Indiana be different than some HPI: How many points of contact have you made of the special elections in Alabama and Pennsylvania with in Indiana thus far? And what’s your goal by November? that House seat? How are you going to avoid what hap- McDaniel: I had said in there we already had pened there from happening here? 210,000 voter contacts. I expect to have significantly more McDaniel: Some of those are anomalies. Special once we build out our full state operation. Part of that has elections are special because they happen on different been our training of our Allied Fellows, our volunteers over 800. They will help knock on doors, hold rallies or host meetings. Those are the things they’ll do to engage voters in their communities. Abdul: How important is Indi- ana going to be in the race to control the U.S. Senate? HPI: Indiana is key to Repub- licans expanding our majority in the Senate. We think this is one of our best opportunities and the RNC will be all in and fully invested to bring Mike Braun into the Senate and to retire Joe Don- nelly. Abdul: What’s going to make a difference? It looks like everybody is going to spend a ton of money here. McDaniel: It’s going to be turnout. In mid-terms, it’s turnout, turnout, turnout. In presidential years, you’re going to have a naturally higher turnout. In the mid-terms, there’s going Page 14 dates and new candidates. This will be a more traditional mid-term when you’re going up and down the ballot and Mayor Winnecke touts every single candidate will be helping drive turnout. You want to make sure all the candidates are driving turnout in their congressional districts down to the school board Evansville’s progress level. Obviously, having a strong top of the ticket is going By BRIAN A. HOWEY to pivotal in being successful in our congressional seats, as EVANSVILLE – After all the GOP functions sub- well. sided Friday night prior to the state convention, we met up HPI: Was Mike Braun your best-case scenario for with Evansville Mayor Lloyd Winnecke at Comfort by Cross- the general? This is not meant to diss Reps. Rokita and eyed Cricket, a new restaurant and bar in a downtown that Messer, but they had lengthy records in Congress and is rapidly evolving in Indiana’s third-largest city. Congress is not popular with voters. Winnecke and Deputy Mayor Steve Schaefer are McDaniel: I can’t get into that. That’s tough! leading a revival that has brought the Tropicana Casino in- HPI: I’m talking about the caliber of candidate … land. There is a new multi-building McDaniel: They were all good candidates. medical campus he orchestrated HPI: … but the caliber of Mike Braun, being an with Indiana University, University outsider with no congressional record to defend …. of Southern Indiana and the Uni- McDaniel: I think there’s a reason Mike Braun versity of Evansville that will bring was selected by Hoosiers to represent the state. They more than a thousand students like that he was a businessman first, similar to Donald downtown. The regional airport Trump, someone who isn’t seen as a Washington person. is expanding with more direct flights. And there is inno- Someone who is going to be a change agent. That was vation, with Michael Cunningham’s BruBurger nestled in something that appealed to voters here. He’s going to be a the art deco Greyhound Bus Station that will be part of a really strong candidate to send Joe Donnelly home. technology innovation center with Vectren, General Electric HPI: Do you want to see Uncle Mitt in the Sen- and the Chinese manufacturer Qingdao Haier. ate? All of McDaniel: Yeah … these projects HPI: I had to ask. have been part of McDaniel: I’m neutral, I’m neutral! The latest poll the Regional Cities had him up 43%. funding that Win- HPI: What do you bring to a crowd like this? necke helped land McDaniel: I want to make sure the crowd un- with Vanderburgh, derstands the urgency of this, especially at a convention. Warrick, Posey and These people are the backbone. These are the people who Gibson counties. knock on doors, these are the people who work every day There will soon be until Election Day. One is just to thank them and tell them a new Ohio River what a difference they can make. Indiana is so great to crossing, one of nominate three women here for statewide office and to the missing links have a lieutenant governor who’s a woman. Your state re- that will connect ally champions women and I credit your party for recog- Canada and Mexico nizing women in those leadership roles. This is something via I-69. that is happening across the country. I’m only the second Win- woman to chair the RNC and this is going to be an election necke is a former where we have more women running for congressional TV news and Fifth seats than they do. We have double what we had in 2016. Third Bank executive who moved into the political realm in That’s a great thing. 1999 when he replaced Mayor Russel Lloyd, Jr. on the Van- HPI: And what about the so-called blue wave? derburgh County Council. He was reelected in 2002 with McDaniel: What we’ve seen with the Democratic 61% of the vote. He was elected (running unopposed) Party with this blue wave has really become a ripple. They to the Vanderburgh Commissioners in 2008. In 2011, he didn’t perform well in California. More Republicans turned defeated Democrat Rick Davis 54-46% for mayor, then ran out in those key races. Voters are really taking stock in unopposed in 2015. He is preparing for a reelection bid in things. Republican leadership is causing bigger paychecks 2019 and there is no clear Democratic challenger in the for families, higher wages, more jobs and Democrats are offing. the party of no. They really aren’t championing anything We took the opportunity to drink a beer with other than being against Donald Trump. That’s not a win- Mayor Winnecke and find out why the state’s third larg- ning message. v est city is literally a hopping place. It was easy to figure out on Saturday with a flawless GOP convention taking Page 15 place in a city that is hitting health care institutions to on all cylinders. Or as Gov. come together and what Eric Holcomb put it, “I don’t we see there is the Medical think Evansville has ever Mile. A number of us went looked better.” up there in 2012 and 2013 We couldn’t agree and thought, “We can do more. Here is our HPI Inter- that.” We were able to con- view with Mayor Winnecke. vince the universities that HPI: What excites this is the model for the fu- you about Evansville right ture. What you’re going to now? What should Hoosiers see on Aug. 6 when classes across the state know about open in the first building your city? on campus, you’re going Winnecke: There’s to see a really phenomenal a sense of excitement and partnership. vibrancy that exists today HPI: In five that did not exist when I started in 2012. What I’ve seen years, how many students with medical degrees will be in the last six-plus years is a community pulling together coming out of that institution? We keep hearing there will that wants to act, walk and talk like the third largest city be doctor shortages across the state over a number of in the state. I think we’re doing that. We’re seeing collabo- disciplines. ration at a phenomenal level. In 2016, we were named Winnecke: IU has a medical school here a Promise Zone City. When HUD Secretary Julián Castro now. It’s on the University of Southern Indiana campus called me, I asked, “Why Evansville?” Because there were – about 120 students there. On this campus, there will South L.A., San Diego, Nashville, Atlanta and Evansville. be roughly 500 between the three schools. We’d like to He said the “level of collaboration is phenomenal enough, get Ivy Tech on this campus to bring their health-science you deserve this designation.” curriculum from the north-side campus downtown. If we HPI: What does that designation mean? are able to do that, another 1,500 students or so will be Winnecke: As a Promise Zone City, you’re one in the downtown area. University of Evansville has created of 22 cities that has this designation for 10 years. As we a graduate PA program. USI is going to bring its nursing apply for federal grants with certain federal agencies, you get extra points in your grant applications for being a Promise Zone. So, you’re servicing the highest poverty areas in the city, the highest crime rates, the highest levels of worst access to health care or edu- cation. When he said this, my takeaway was when writing a grant application, we were able to convey how collaborative we are. So, when all the HUD people come in from Chi- cago or Washington and they see it in action, frankly they’re blown away. We’re seeing that in all sectors of the city, from the business community, the not-for-profits, to the public sector. There’s a bind here that did not exist five or six years ago. HPI: So, you’ve got this new medical center that’s just about to open. Winnecke: It’s a collaborative edu- cational partnership between IU, University of Southern program from the west side downtown. It’s a cool partner- Indiana and the University of Evansville. They’ve created a ship. complimentary arrangement. They are normally competi- HPI: So, you were part of Gov. Pence’s Regional tors, but in this really unique setting they’ll be working Cities program. What’s going on with that? together. It’s a model we went to Grand Rapids to see. Winnecke: It’s pretty cool. So, when the Regional Several years ago, Michigan State University wanted to Cities was announced, pushing regions working together, expand its medical education program and found this new we’d been doing that for a number of years. It was pretty model and took it to Grand Rapids and they got multiple easy for us to sit down with our neighbors from Warrick, educational institutions to come together, they got multiple Posey and Gibson counties and come up with a plan. We Page 16 asked Greg Wathen from the Economic Development that a message that should be conveyed to the rest of the Coalition of Southwest Indiana to kind of ride herd on that. state? We put together this phenomenal plan. There was this Winnecke: Yeah. If you look at Evansville today cattle call of projects and there was a local team who eval- compared to 10 years ago – not that other people didn’t uated all the projects people wanted to do, so we came work collaboratively – given the fact that I’m a Republican up with a specific list of projects related to the medical mayor in what is essentially a Democrat city, we’ve en- school; the second building on the campus opening later joyed all the success because we’ve gotten people to work this year or early next year will house clinical research. together. That’s what it’s about. It doesn’t matter who We’re using Regional Cities money for the clinical research. gets the credit. I don’t care if I get the credit. It works The Bruburger block is really phenomenal project. itself out. We’ve convinced people to just help us. That’s HPI: There’s a Bruburger right across the street how my mom and dad raised me. This is going to sound from HPI’s North American headquarters in Indy. Congrat- really cheesy, but if you treat people with respect, good ulations for landing that one. things happen. Winnecke: We are darn happy to have Michael Cunningham down here. That block is the best Regional Cities project in the state. It’s a collaboration between Vectren and Qing- dao Haier, the Chinese manufacturer. They’ve since merged with General Electric. Vectren wants to test new sources of energy and Haier/ GE wanted to test their smaller appliances, so we agreed to build this apartment complex of 150 units with real time connectivity between Vectren and Haier testing all the new stuff they need to test in a dynamic, urban-living arrange- ment. Construction begins in August. Scannell out of India- HPI: You and I have had discussions about the napolis is the developer on that. It’s a really great project. meth problem and it seems the law Gov. Pence signed in We’re using Regional Cities money to help fund the major 2016 is really impacting at least the domestic manufactur- renovation of the regional airport. We made a major an- ing of the stuff. What are your biggest stressors? What nouncement today that Allegiant is adding a new flight keeps you up and night? destination. Over 220,000 people flew out of Evansville Winnecke: We’ve had an uptick in gang activ- last year. Since 2009, we’re up 34%. Our growth surpasses ity, though not at the level of other cities in the state. most peer airports and many larger ones. Our police department has done a nice job of reallocating HPI: Where does I-69 end up going over the Ohio resources and developing, new strategies. They look like River? they’re working. The opioid crisis is here, and we have Winnecke: What we’re working on right now is a substance abuse task force that is taking some strate- a new Ohio River crossing. It’s great that we can get to gies that are beginning to help. One community can’t do Bloomington in an hour and 35 or 40 minutes … it on its own, but we’ve got a lot of people at the table. HPI: Following applicable speed laws. The thing that doesn’t really keep me up at night – but I Winnecke: Well, if you say. They’re just kind of think about it the most – is the water and sewer utilities. guidelines, but anyway, what we’re really working on is We’re under a consent decree from the EPA. We’ve got to lobbying the state legislatures in Kentucky and Indiana spend $729 million in two and a half decades. That means and the federal government to fund a new Ohio River we have to raise sewer rates every year for a long time. crossing between Henderson and Evansville. Kentucky has And, not just because the government says we have to; improved the Pennyrile Parkway to interstate standards for decades and decades and decades, it was ignored. On almost to Tennessee. So, the missing link is the bridge. the water side of the utility, we are not under a federal The existing bridges are really aging. One opened in 1932 mandate. We’ll have 300, 400, 500 water-main breaks and the other in the mid-1960s. There’s an environmental a year, depending on the weather. Our water treatment impact study underway now. There will be a recommended plant opened in 1900. It’s a great looking building. If you route by the end of the summer and a decision within a went in there, you’d say, “This would make a great set for year. Hopefully in that time we’ll figure out a way to fund a Batman movie.” It’s really an awesome building, but it all of that. We have a monthly meeting with our partners opened in 1900. We’ve upgraded technology inside of it, in Henderson, Ky., so there is literally bi-state cooperation. but we have a thousand miles of water lines and 90% of HPI: Your city council is, what … them are cast iron, 80 or 90 years old. So, we’re not on a Winnecke: Five to four Democrat. It was eight to federal consent decree on water, but last year we set up one Democrat in my first term. the first-ever water line replacement project. We’re trying HPI: So, you’ve worked in a bipartisan model. Is to replace 15 miles of water line a year. We know where Page 17 the highest incidents of water main breaks are and we’re HPI: The Indiana Republican Party is in your just replacing water lines as fast as we can. So, to the city tonight, only the second time it’s convened outside of people living on the brink financially, our water and sewer Indianapolis. Should we be looking at Lloyd Winnecke in, rates are going up. Relatively speaking… what’s going to perhaps, a statewide context? happen over time is they are going to continue to rise. Winnecke: No, no, no. The thing about Lloyd There’s going to be a great burden on them. That’s what Winnecke is I like what I like, and I like to stay in my bothers me. lane. I really like what I’m doing. My sisters live in other HPI: I reported years ago the total price tag on cities, but my 88-year-old father is here and I take that combined sewer replacement statewide was in the $15 role more seriously than I take my role as mayor. I hope billion range. We didn’t use Nixon’s Federal Revenue Shar- he’s around for a long time. I enjoy this job and that’s all I ing funds to replace them and so 90% of all CSOs are in want to do. Indiana and Ohio. We were part of the country that didn’t HPI: Anything you want to add that I haven’t get with the program and now we’re paying for it. asked? Winnecke: I get it, because you’re doing stuff Winnecke: We’re excited about this conven- underground. Who wants to raise water and sewer rates? tion. It brings in policy leaders and thought leaders from There’s nothing sexy about it. It’s not like you’re building a around the state and they see what we’re doing with the medical school. But, what we’ve done is we’ve challenged things we asked for. So, when they see me at the State- our utility leadership team that we’re making millions of house I hope they say, “Wow, Lloyd Winnecke and the dollars of investments in the ground, what are we going people in Evansville are taking good advantage of the to do above that? Like improving the aesthetics of the city, resources we’re providing.” I hope they look around this like making it a destination point. We have some unique weekend and say, “We need to be considerate of their things that do two things: They respond to the demands requests.” of the federal government by decree, but we want to leave HPI: It’s great to be back in Evansville and see behind some really great green space. There will be quality our third largest city thriving. You’ve got a great team of life things, as well as functionality. here. HPI: What’s in your political future? A third term? Winnecke: We do have a great team. Steve Winnecke: That’s what we’d like to do. It’s our Schaefer does a phenomenal job. He’s really done a great intention to run for a third term next year. We’ve made no job working with the convention. We have a great com- bones about that. I’ve still got great passion for it. We’re mittee of people raising money and doing the logistics, going hard, 70 to 75 hours a week. But it’s exhausting and but Steve is driving this bus and has just done a phenom- exhilarating at the same time. We’ll see after that. enal job. v

50th anniversary of events then that shook the nation. It was worse in 1968 The split in 1968 was worse because it involved a terrible war with casualties mounting in Vietnam. Escalation was By JACK COLWELL bringing higher casualty counts rather than the victory SOUTH BEND – With the nation split, angry and promised by the Pentagon. Sentiment was growing that it fearful even for safety of kids in their schools, with faith was a no-win war with useless loss of limbs and lives. in institutions and the rule of law eroding, with the threat Young men were drafted. Many resisted. of trade wars and real wars from Korea to Iran and with a Protests grew on college campuses, sometimes turn- president relishing divisiveness ing violent, building toward the later tragedy in which as a sign of successful disrup- unarmed college students were gunned down by the tion, some Americans ask if Ohio National Guard at Kent State. Protests were not the these are the worst of times. Oft peaceful variety of the women’s marches last year or the heard is the question: Have you marches now of nice-mannered kids against gun violence. ever seen it this bad? Angry protests then often turned into riots with injuries Yes. Worse. and extensive property damage. We would not have to go There was not just character assassination but back to the Civil War to find a actual assassination, the killing of Martin Luther King Jr. time when the nation was torn and Bobby Kennedy. more by internal disagreements Hatemongers didn’t just use code words to pro- and filled with more trepidation. mote discrimination and stir bigotry. They called blatantly Just go back to 1968. for rigid racial segregation, resorting to violence to en- That year is getting a lot of attention in TV docu- force it. Alabama Gov. George Wallace launched a third- mentaries and national publications because it now is the Page 18 party presidential effort based on segregation. Somehow, the nation got through it. More years Politics also was nasty then, not with tweets but in were needed to end the war in Vietnam and to find that the streets. Nixon wasn’t the one to provide solid, stable leadership. It the Democratic National Convention in Chi- Problems remained, as they always will, but the Consti- cago, bloody confrontations erupted between demonstra- tution prevailed, American prosperity grew, divisiveness tors and Chicago police. Each side sought blood. National seemed to lessen, and the nation’s power and prestige in Guard troops with bayonets fixed and machine guns the world, questioned during Vietnam, was restored. mounted on jeeps blocked Michigan Avenue, separating If America could survive 1968 and come out bet- anti-war demonstrators in Grant Park from delegates at ter, it can survive the divisiveness now and come out bet- the Conrad Hilton Hotel. Reporters trying to report on the ter again. event weren’t treated very well then either, by either side, Overly optimistic? I don’t mean to be. I’m say- inside and outside the embattled convention center. ing that we can come out better, not that we will auto- The president, Lyndon B. Johnson, was unpopu- matically or quickly. The nation didn’t heal automatically lar, so much so that he decided not to seek reelection. No or quickly after 1968. And while things were much worse presidential candidate was viewed as a popular, unifying then, we can’t assume that we have yet seen the worst of leader, except perhaps Bobby Kennedy, who was slain. our present divisiveness. Richard Nixon, the Republican nominee, wasn’t exactly War in Korea? With Iran? Another draft? Protests beloved even in GOP ranks. Hubert Humphrey, the Demo- less peaceful? A constitutional crisis? We hope all of that is cratic nominee, emerged weakened from the Chicago averted, that we do not replicate the rage of 1968 before convention madness. He wasn’t that popular either. things do get better. v Rioting in the cities amid rage over the assassina- tion of King finally subsided, though anger remained and Colwell has covered Indiana politics over five de- racial conflict was not ended. Americans asked where it all cades for the South Bend Tribune would end, or if it would. When 1968 ended, divisiveness didn’t.

to all forms of marriage. GOP remains in closet While the Pence faction came out the winner last week, there were some significant things said by some By RICH JAMES party leaders about the future. One of them is Porter MERRILLVILLE – Indiana’s Republican Party re- County GOP Chairman Michael Simpson. In a speech from minds me of the gay who wants to come out of the closet the floor, Simpson said that a broader understanding of but can’t quite bring himself to do it. Such was the case family “is the best platform for our party and the best way a week ago at the state conven- for us to grow.” Simpson went on to say, “We’re going to tion in Evansville. The party voted continue (in Porter County) on our inclusive processes and overwhelmingly to include lan- try to bring everybody in and make them feel welcome guage in its platform that marriage and be a part of the team.” is a commitment between a man Not only did Simpson have the guts to speak and a woman – nothing less. out about the party’s future, so, too, did state GOP Chair- The party defeated an man Kyle Hupfer, who said that at the next convention in effort by Gov. Eric Holcomb to two years the delegates should be more varied. While support a “strong families” stance Holcomb has more vision than previous Republican gover- that says, “We support traditional nors, so, too, does Hupfer when it comes to state chair- families with a mother and father, men. “We must recognize that Indiana is becoming more blended families, grandparents, diverse, more urban and as is always the case, every year guardians, single parents and all loving adults who suc- another set of young voters cast their first ballots,” Hupfer cessfully raise and nurture children to reach their full said. “It is imperative that our party grow and evolve at potential every day.” this same pace.” Just when one thought Indiana Republicans Simpson and Hupfer have a lot of work ahead were changing for the better with Gov. Eric Holcomb of them. The party seems perfectly content to keep the replacing Mike Pence, such was not the case when it came closet door locked. v to the party platform. It was Pence while governor who embarrassed himself and the state on national television Rich James has been writing about state and local by remaining steadfast that marriage was between a man government and politics for more than 30 years. He and a woman. Pence lost all credibility when he kept con- is retired from the Post-Tribune. tending that despite the party’s stance, the state was open Page 19

Kelly Hawes, CNHI: So Rudy Giuliani says the previous agreements, of institutions, even of an anodyne special counsel is trying to frame the president. G-7 statement just days ago. But in Singapore, he could “They don’t have a crime, and that’s why I say they’re achieve something without discussion of complex issues, trying to frame him,” Giuliani told the Washington without any intellectual effort at all: a photograph, Post. “Because if they had any sense, they would a “breakthrough,” the image of the intuitive deal- realize they’re trying to put together a case on an maker who wants “peace.” The images coming out innocent man. And that’s what we call in America of Singapore are also important to Trump because framing somebody.” In a normal world, an out- he has created them. When meeting with allies, landish claim like that would make headlines, but Trump does not control the narrative, nor does he in the world in which we now find ourselves, the state- decide what people will see. Indeed, the image that came ment didn’t even make the lead of the story. The former to symbolize that disastrous, angry G-7 meeting was not New York mayor’s observations on foreign policy drew his own creation: It was taken by a German photographer, most of the attention. Still, the comment is an illustration and it showed Chancellor Angela Merkel leaning over a of the president’s strategy. He has solid support among table and talking down to the American president, like a his base, the economy is going great and all that noise parent to a child. In Singapore, by contrast, Trump con- the Democrats and the evil news media are making about trolled the optics, even deliberately giving priority to a the special counsel’s investigation is just that. Noise. The Singaporean television station rather than the White House president has done nothing wrong, and all of his actions pool. He reveled in that ability. v have been entirely proper. He and his lawyers are certainly not trying to tear down the institutions that support our Stephen Hayes, Weekly Standard: It is dis- democracy. They’re simply defending the president from concerting to watch the president’s eagerness to serve as unwarranted attacks. “We’re trying to purify institutions,” a character witness to Kim Jong-un. “He trusts me and I Giuliani told the Post. v trust him.” So declared President Donald Trump to ABC’s George Stephanopolous after meeting North Korean dicta- Anne Applebaum, Washington Post: A series tor Kim Jong-un. Even allowing for Trump’s characteristic of U.S. and North Korean flags, side by side, lined up hyperbole and the niceties of diplomacy, it’s an absurd across a stage. The two men approach the stage from op- thing to say about the leader of a regime defined over the posite sides, and then shake hands. They pose for photo- last 30 years by its mendacity. And it was one of many graphs. They walk off again. This is the image, the picture, bizarre and troubling things to come out of the disastrous that both men wanted to project around the world. But Trump-Kim face-to-face meeting in Singapore on June 12. why? For Kim Jong Un, this moment is vindication. The Trump and Kim signed an agreement committing North wisdom of his nuclear policy has been confirmed: His tiny, Korea to denuclearization and the U.S. to “security guaran- poor, often hungry country, where hundreds of thousands tees” for North Korea. In substance, the 403-word docu- have perished in concentration camps that differ little from ment, which Trump called “very comprehensive,” doesn’t those built by Stalin, has been treated as the equal of differ much from the many previous agreements—written the United States of America. If Kim hadn’t continued the and oral—between the two nations. And while it’s possible missile program, if he hadn’t enhanced his missile deliv- that Kim Jong-un is suddenly willing to give up the nuclear ery capability, President Trump would not be there. The weapons that won him an audience with the leader of the photographs will also help Kim solve an important prob- free world, the greatest difference between this summit lem. All dictators are insecure, and absolute dictators are and those in the past was the unrestrained optimism of absolutely more insecure than the rest. Several years ago, the American side and fulsome praise for the brutal dicta- Kim staged the elaborate murder of his uncle, forcing the tor from the U.S. president. v rest of the elite to watch as his rival was ripped apart by antiaircraft machine guns. Fear and terror are one way to Isaac Dovere, Politico: The final GOP holdouts to transmit messages of power; the inspiration of admiration Donald Trump whimper into oblivion”: “Put a blond com- and awe are another. The flags and the handshake will bover on the elephant. Take down the pictures of Abraham reinforce Kim’s legitimacy and make him harder to depose. Lincoln and Ronald Reagan. It’s over. It’s Donald Trump’s For Trump, this image addresses the somewhat different GOP. The anti-Trump candidates are fleeing, and the ones problem of his personal feelings of insecurity. Legally, his who stick around are getting trampled. The chill has gone legitimacy is not in doubt. Yet Trump often seems to worry out among whoever’s left: there’s no more speaking up, that it is. Elected without a majority, Trump repeatedly and if there is, it’s just for the sake of a speech, a protest claims he has one. With no political, educational or any quote that quickly disappears. They chalk it up to party other qualifications, Trump ascribes to himself almost mys- loyalty, or staying unified for the midterms. They say they tical, intuitive qualities instead. So far, these have failed still believe in the principles, but they don’t tend to do him. In the complicated, nuanced worlds of economics and more than say the words. Then, when the microphones security, he has achieved nothing except destruction: of are off, they confide. They complain.v Page 20

(Real Clear Politics). Lawmakers ous claims made by North Korea Primary turnout urged the administration to continue in the 1990s, which ultimately was just 20% a “maximum pressure campaign” fell through. “I’m having a hard against North Korea, a term the presi- time figuring out what we got INDIANAPOLIS – Just 1 in 5 dent shunned in the days before the in exchange for legitimizing the registered Hoosier voters cast a ballot meeting. And many argued that there North Korean regime. We’ve put last month in the Republi- must be congressional buy- an American flag next to a North can and Democratic primary in on any official deal that Korean flag and basically treated a elections, according to data emerges. Meanwhile, some dictator like an equal.” released Wednesday by the Republican candidates run- Indiana secretary of state ning for Congress embraced Holcomb signs (Carden, NWI Times). The 20 the meeting. “President percent voter turnout was an Trump has accomplished offender bill increase compared to the 13 percent par- what Barack Obama never could, and INDIANAPOLIS – A bill ticipation rate tallied in 2014 at the most as a result we are beginning a path authored by State Sen. Mike recent state primary election without towards a safer Pacific region and Bohacek, R-Michiana Shores, that a presidential race on the ballot. State a safer United States,” said Indiana prevents sex offenders from living records show primary election turnout Senate hopeful Mike Braun. Though near victims was ceremonially was 21 percent in the 2010 midterms, it is too early to assess what kind of signed into law Monday by Gov. 20 percent in 2006 and 22 percent in impact the summit could have on the Eric Holcomb (LaPorte Herald 2002. This year, 870,336 ballots were midterm elections, and whether it Argus). Senate Enrolled Act 12 cast in the May 8 races that included a will influence voters’ overall feelings makes it unlawful for a sex of- hotly contested Republican U.S. Senate of security, for now “the reality is: fender to intentionally establish primary won by former state Rep. Mike Where we are now in the conversa- residence within one mile of their Braun, R-Jasper. Eighty percent of those tion is far better than where we were victim. ballots were marked on Election Day, six months ago,” says Lanhee Chen, a while 20 percent were submitted through research fellow at The Hoover Institu- Pence addresses either early or absentee voting. tion and a policy adviser to Republican presidential campaigns. “It may be Southern Baptists Sanders, Shah to one of those situations where Republi- cans end up benefiting, but it’s a very WASHINGTON — In the leave White House tricky dynamic because of the history.” latest sign of the Trump admin- istration’s outreach to religious WASHINGTON – Two of the most conservatives ahead of a critical visible members of the Trump adminis- Buttigieg skeptical midterm election, Vice President tration are planning their departures, the Mike Pence told a large gather- latest sign of upheaval in a White House of summit results ing of pastors Wednesday that marked by turmoil (CBS News). Press SOUTH BEND – South Bend the White House would continue secretary Sarah Sanders and principal Mayor Pete Buttigieg spoke with Pow- to fight for evangelical priorities deputy press secretary Raj Shah are erhouse Politics podcast hosts Rick (New York Times). He appealed both heading for the exits, according Klein and MaryAlice Parks right after for the community’s continued to sources inside the White House and the historic summit between Presi- support, even as his appearance close to the administration. Sanders ... dent Donald Trump and North Korean led to complaints that a religious has told friends that she plans to leave leader Kim Jong Un – and the small- event was being used for political the administration at the end of the year. city mayor weighed in on the biggest gain. “This is a pivotal year in the Shah is also considering his exit, but he foreign policy story going (ABC News). life of our nation,” Mr. Pence told has not yet settled on an exact date.. “This president seems committed to the Southern Baptist Convention, talking to our enemies but seems where nearly 10,000 evangelical Braun lauds Trump, to have a little more trouble talking pastors gathered in Dallas. “Be as- Kim summit results to our friends,” the mayor told Klein sured of this, President Trump and and Parks. “I’m not totally convinced I are going to continue to fight for JASPER – As President Trump that the United States has a foreign what we know is right. This prog- touts the historic nature of his meeting policy right now.” Buttigieg expressed ress, is the result of the support of with North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un, skepticism about Kim’s recently pro- men and women like so many of calling it the start of a “terrific relation- claimed commitment to denuclearize you, who supported our president ship,” lawmakers on both sides of the the Korean peninsula, explaining that not only in 2016 but every day aisle are sounding more cautious notes the dictator’s move reflects previ- since.”