V17, N26 Thursday, March 8, 2012 Mourdock’s trident drawn at Lugar NRA, , FreedomWorks join cloaked alliance against incumbent By BRIAN A. HOWEY INDIANAPOLIS - The trident aimed at U.S. Sen. Dick Lugar is now drawn. The National Rifle Association en- joined the Republican Senate race on behalf of Treasurer , joining a triumvirate alliance that includes ’s FreedomWorks and ’s Club for Growth. Sources tell HPI that taking advantage of the Super PACs brought about the the Citi- zens United Supreme Court decision, Freedom- Works has been organizing grassroots opera- tions, Club for Growth will bundle perhaps as much as $2 million, and the NRA will commu- nicate “every way possible” Lugar’s record on guns. All of this outside money pouring into the state will be cloaked in anonymity. “Unlike his opponent, Senator Lugar, who has a clear record of hostility toward our right to keep and bear arms, all gun owners in the May 8 Republican primary. This is certainly the only and sportsmen in Indiana can trust that Richard Mourdock Republican race where we’re endorsing against the incum- will defend their Second Amendment rights,” said Chris W. Cox, Chairman of NRA-PVF “We urge all NRA members and Continued on page 3 gun owners in Indiana to vote Richard Mourdock for U.S. The Manning era passes By BRIAN A. HOWEY INDIANAPOLIS - “Thank you very much from the bottom of my heart,” a tearful Peyton Manning said Wednesday. “I’ve truly enjoyed being your quarterback.” ‘‘Angel has been reunited with Whew. Give me a minute … her parents. We want to thank OK … When Peyton Manning came to God for all of you and for your Indiana, it was a basketball state. The Pacers were about to lose one of the thoughts and prayers. All should greatest seven-game playoff series ever look to God.” to Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls with Larry Bird at the helm in the pre- - Jack Brough, grandfather of brawl era. Bob Knight was still coaching tornado victim Angel Babcock HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 2 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Thursday, March 8, 2012

the Indiana Hoosiers. Gene Keady was “I guess in life and sports we prowling Mackey Arena. Reggie Miller all lasts forever,” Man- was in his prime. We had only just be- ning said. gun crowning four high school cham- We know the history. Unitas pions with the new class basketball. ended up as a Charger. Montana a www.HoweyPolitics.com Over the next 14 years, the Chief. Even Babe Ruth ended up with culture of this state has changed. the Boston Braves and Hank Aaron “There are more Division One football with the Brewers. Howey Politics players in Indiana,” said former NFL Why did this happen? Indiana receiver Cris Carter on ESPN. “He The only blame was aimed is a non-partisan newsletter changed the culture.” at “circumstances,” none of which any- based in Indianapolis. It was Carter and ESPN analyst Trent one could have predicted just months founded in 1994 in Fort Wayne. Dilfer remembered ago. It was only last July Indianapolis as the that Manning signed a “Nap Town” of the NFL five-year, $90 million Brian A. Howey, Publisher with a lackadaisical contract. Mark Schoeff Jr., Washington fan base, less than “I can’t tell you what Jack E. Howey, editor full houses on Sunday, an honor it is to go Beverly K. Phillips, associate and a tepid tailgating start-to-finish with the scene. That quickly same organization here editor changed as Manning’s in Indianapolis,” Manning 3-13 Colts in 1998 said then, drawing paral- Subscriptions turned into a 13-3 lels with premier athletes $350 annually HPI Weekly powerhouse in 1999. like Larry Bird, Ernie Dilfer said that once Banks, John Elway, Dan $550 annually HPI Weekly and Manning became a Marino and Derek Jeter HPI Daily Wire. Colt and became accli- who played for only one 'Call 317.627.6746 mated, when the team team. “That is something played on the road it I always wanted to do as was like “the circus coming to town.” a rookie coming out. Of course, you Contact HPI The change in culture in- never know if that is possible, but Howey Politics Indiana cluded the mounting wins and fewer after yesterday it is official that I will 6255 Evanston Ave. losses, the NFL record string of win- be an Indianapolis Colt for my en- Indianapolis, IN 46220 ning seasons and playoff appearances, tire career. I will not play for another www.howeypolitics.com the four NFL MVPs, the Super Bowl team. My last down of football will be championship after the 1996 season, with the Colts, which means a great [email protected] the first professional title for the state deal to me.” 'Howey’s cell: 317.506.0883 in a generation. It included laying Then came the parade of 'Washington: 703.248.0909 Astroturf on prep football fields and neck surgeries and the deeply flawed 'Business Office: 317.627.6746 the addition of Jumbotrons. It meant play of Curtis Painter, Kerry Collins and the construction of Lucas Oil Stadium, Dan Orlovsky, along with 13 straight the House That Peyton Built. It meant losses. Colts fans waited patiently for © 2012, Howey Politics Indiana. that the team would stay in Indianap- nerves to regenerate while the team All rights reserved. Photocopy- olis, and not become the Los Angeles fell apart. It emerged the winner of ing, Internet forwarding, fax- Colts. It meant the Colts throwing the “Suck for Luck” derby and at sea- ing or reproducing in any form, open the door of Lucas Oil Stadium to son’s end, with Manning pining to get whole or part, is a violation of the IHSAA. It brought the Super Bowl on the field, the Colts ended up with to town last month, perhaps the big- the No. 1 draft choice, almost certainly federal law without permission gest party and celebration of the city’s to be Stanford’s Andrew Luck. from the publisher. v sports culture in modern times. Folks The team fired Bill Polian, in Indy began to reason, if we can do most of the coaches. Aging players Pan Am Games, the 500 and now the will be cut. A rebuilding effort en- Super Bowl, why not the Olympics? sues. “Circumstances” for Jim Irsay HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 3 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Thursday, March 8, 2012

and Manning meant surrounding the legend with young, many things that he insists no one know about. There have unproven talent. It meant the closing window for a second been countless times that he has called me when we’ve Super Bowl title for No. 18. had some kind of need and said, ‘Governor, I want to help,’ So Hoosiers must now come to grips with watching and he’ll do everything but associate his name with it. We Manning throw and win for teams with either fish or feath- are going to miss seeing number 18 under center for the ers on helmets (and hopefully, not Jags, Texans or Titans). Colts, but I am happy to hear he will continue to call India- Irsay cited the salary cap, rebuilding and “circumstances napolis his home. It’s not a happy day.” too difficult to overcome,” and said, “We’re a few years Irsay acknowledged the “unparalleled” situation for away. Money was never a factor.” Colts fans. The hero is gone, with no compensation, and For Manning, there was professed love for the only a much heralded rookie yet to demonstrate his staying city and state that he changed. “This town has meant so power and health despite his obvious talents. “The 18 jer- much to me,” Manning said. “I do love it here. I’m not leav- sey will never be worn again by a Colts on the field,” Irsay ing Indianapolis. It’s still a huge part of my life.” said. “It’s tearing at our hearts.” Gov. Daniels observed, “Peyton is as great a citizen Indeed. as he is a quarterback. He’s contributed in ways people can The laser rocket arm is gone. And now we await see, like his children’s hospital, but he has also done so the Architect. v

ment’s position on a temporary assault weapons ban, so Mourdock’s Trident, from page 1 that officers and deputies were not out-gunned by gang bent in the primary,” he said. “It’s and not often where members and drug dealers. Senator Lugar continues to we are forced to be in a position of opposing an incumbent focus on issues that matter most to Hoosiers – private-sec- Republican.” tor jobs, federal spending and debt, national security and Lugar’s lifetime “D+” NRA rating was recently energy costs.” lowered to an “F.” Mourdock has previously received an The NRA move becomes part of a right wing move- “A” rating from the NRA for his support of the rights of gun ment against Congressional centrists at a time when the owners. “Senator Lugar has never been held accountable national GOP is losing support in the center and from the for his 36 year record of support for gun control,” Mourdock fastest growing minorities. A Poll revealed that said in a conference call Wednesday. “At every turn when President Obama is supported by 73% of Latinos, in part Hoosier gun owners’ rights were at stake, Dick Lugar voted due to immigration laws in states like Arizona, Alabama with the liberal Democrats to restrict their Constitutional and Indiana. In 2004, President George W. Bush won 44% rights to firearm ownership.” of the Latino vote in his narrow victory over John Kerry. Specifically, the NRA says that Lugar has sup- An NBC News/Wall Street Journal Poll shows that after the ported the following major anti-gun legislation: Voted “contraception” wars, female approval for President Obama against reciprocity to carry concealed weapons across state from women rose to 54 percent versus 40 percent disap- lines (2009); Voted for background checks on all firearms proval. In December, both his overall approval and disap- transactions (2004); Voted in favor of extending the Assault proval among women were 47 percent. NBC/WSJ also saw Weapons Ban for 10 years (2004); Voted for the Brady much criticism from Republicans over the rightward social Handgun bill (1993); Voted for the Assault Weapons Ban issue bent of the presidential race, which it described as (1993). It also pointed to Lugar’s “enthusiastic support for “corrosive.” liberal, anti-gun rights Supreme Court nominees like Sonia Chocola himself was a victim of a cultural back- Sotomayor and Ruth Bader Ginsburg.” lash. In 2006, he and U.S. Rep. Mike Sodrel joined U.S. The Lugar campaign countered with a statement, Rep. John Hostettler on a multi-city tour calling for drastic saying, “Senator Lugar strongly supports the Second changes in immigration law. All three lost that November. Amendment right to bear arms. He opposes federal gun With unable to land a knockout punch proposals that violate the 2nd Amendment to the U.S. against on Super Tuesday, it is a harbinger Constitution and supports the conservative principle behind for the presidential race to come to Indiana on May 8. That the 10th Amendment that powers not delegated to the could be good news for Lugar, with more independents and federal government by the U.S. Constitution are reserved Democrats drawn into the Republican primary. The Lugar to the states. Dick Lugar supports the rights of law-abiding campaign always believed that expanding the voting pool citizens to purchase, carry and hunt with guns. As a former would be necessary. The good news for Mourdock is that mayor who worked closely with local police and deputies, Santorum will stoke the challenger’s base. Senator Dick Lugar in the 1990s supported law enforce- There is no question that Lugar will be facing a HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 4 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Thursday, March 8, 2012

wave-by-wave assault un- may be the party’s only hope to hold a seat precedented in modern times in the strongly blue state,” the Post reported. against an incumbent Indiana noted that Snowe’s senator. It rekindles a decades announcement makes the Senate seat a likely long dormant dynamic of isola- pick up target for Democrats in their bid to tionist Republicans against the retain their narrow 53-47 advantage in the internationalists, in this case, Senate. Lugar. While Mourdock was The centrist assault prompted former First unable to earn monetary sup- Lady Barbara Bush to call the 2012 presiden- port in traditional methods and tial race “the worst campaign I’ve ever seen in his campaign has stumbled on my life. I hate that people think compromise many fronts, he has worked is a dirty word. It’s not a dirty word.” up a national confederation of Mourdock, who will campaign with Dick outsiders who are prepared Armey this weekend, has become an enemy to castigate the Lugar record of the concept, saying last week, ”Bipartisan- that once had him held in high ship has taken us to the brink of bankruptcy.” esteem as a “statesman.” The Lugar forces are girding for a race Indiana Democrats, that just about everybody believes will tighten relying on their internal polling during the final two months. For the first time from 2011, believe Lugar is since 1982, the Lugar campaign is running extremely vulnerable. Sens- negative TV ads citing Mourdock’s lack of at- Senate moderate Republicans Olympia ing an opening to position Joe tendance at his official state functions. “Rich- Snowe, who announced her retirement this Donnelly against the weaker ard Mourdock just doesn’t go to his taxpayer week, and Lugar (with Daniels) are an endan- Mourdock, the Democrats funded job,” says the announcer in a TV ad. A gered species. Lugar’s homestretch trump worked up an unholy alliance second voice over mocks the state treasurer, will likely be Daniels’ emphatic endorsement with Mourdock to press Lugar saying: “Mr. Mourdock? Has anybody seen of the senator in Carmel last month, filmed on the residency issue last Mr. Mourdock?” An analysis by the campaign. month. called the ad “harsh.” Lugar released an “You don’t see a politician’s true charac- internal poll earlier this month ter until their re-election is threatened,” said showing the incumbent with a 55-30% lead over Mour- Mourdock campaign manager Jim Holden (Associated dock, though the campaign released few details about the Press). The Lugar campaign sees it as a matter of necessi- makeup of the poll. There have been no independent me- ty. “Dick Lugar’s a gentleman, he always is,” said campaign dia polls in the race to date. The Howey/DePauw Indiana spokesman David Willkie, “but he’s a fighter, too.” Battleground Poll will be published in April. Mourdock responded with a new TV airing on net- For centrists, the assault on Lugar and the retire- work TV this week insisting that either he or his staff are ment on U.S. Sen. of Maine pose a dilem- attending “99%” of his meetings. And when HPI sent ques- ma for the GOP, which lost a chance at retaining the Senate tions to Mourdock’s Statehouse staff asking for information majority in 2010 after Tea Party nominees in Delaware and on his administration of the Wireless 911 Fund, Holden Nevada knocked off moderate Republicans, then lost in wrote editors of newspapers carrying Brian Howey’s col- the general election. Snowe, who is seen as a moderate umn, saying, “As you can see from the email below, Brian Republican, cites frustration over the current “atmosphere Howey approached an inquiry to Richard Mourdock’s office of polarization and ‘my way or the highway’ ideologies” as with an accusation, and it is clear from his use of the term her reason for not seeking a fourth term. “I am a fighter at ‘slush fund’ that he already has his story written before he heart, and I am well prepared for the electoral battle,” she gathers the facts.” said. “Unfortunately, I do not realistically expect the parti- No such story has been written, and Mourdock’s sanship of recent years in the Senate to change over the campaign and office continue to deny interview requests short term. So at this stage of my tenure in public service, on basic questions about his official duties. Primary Horse I have concluded that I am not prepared to commit myself Race Status: Leans Lugar v to an additional six years in the Senate.” has described Snowe’s retire- ment as a “major setback” to the GOP’s efforts to retain a majority in the Senate. “As a moderate Republican, she HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 5 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Thursday, March 8, 2012

gentleman, somehow the manners of Bush undermined his GOP establishment toughness in public. And when he tried to act “tough” it just seemed fake, sometimes silly. was not from a genteel background, is in panic mode but also was a genuinely nice guy. He was a football star By MARK SOUDER in college, yet managed to come across as an unathletic FORT WAYNE - The noise you hear is the knock- bumbler. And, like Bush and Romney, was a moderate con- ing knees of the Republican establishment across America. servative on economic issues, solid (when not confused) on The first thing people say about Mitt Romney is that he foreign affairs, but moderate on social/cultural issues. looks like a President should look. Ford in 1976 tried to move right, which helped His resume could not be better: father was a prom- him win the nomination, barely, but somehow he managed inent businessman and governor of a big state, mother was to lose to populist Jimmy Carter. Bush 41 tried to move senator of Michigan as well, son goes on to win a guberna- right against Reagan, and failed. Then after serving as torial race as a Republican in the liberal Reagan’s effective vice president, won in 1988, riding on state of Massachusetts, Mitt also plays the conservative wave and promising to never raise . a key role in “saving” the Salt Lake City Not just “read my lips, no new taxes” but “and they will Olympics, and to those who understand push, and I’ll say no, and they will push again, and I’ll say what capitalism is, does an excellent no – read my lips, no new taxes!” Of course, Bush 41 went job leading Bain Capital to demonstrate back to his norm once President, raised taxes, and was how failing companies can often be somehow defeated by populist Bill Clinton. saved. So now it is Mitt Romney’s turn to be the establish- Unfortunately for the establish- ment “moderate” (as it is defined inside the Republican ment, the election doesn’t pit resumes Party) who attempts to transform himself into a conserva- against each other; real live people tive. You can just visualize him saying, almost every night: compete. “What do these people want? I’m trying to tell them what So what is Mitt Romney’s people problem? He they want to hear.” seems like a genuinely nice man. He had to be forced into His friends in the establishment are even more being negative in debates because “good manners” dictate confused. First, there are his capitalist friends. I am a bit politeness. In private, for example at Bain, he was known unusual and have this in common with my good friend Mike to be fairly ruthless. This is George H. W. Bush (41) all over Pence. I am first defined by my social conservatism based again. Almost a carbon copy (that is a reference for older upon my Christian faith, personal sins notwithstanding. My people reading this). actions were wrong, not my beliefs. Bush 41 started as fairly conservative on eco- But as a business guy, both with undergraduate nomic issues, solid on foreign policy but less so on social and graduate business degrees, and as a small business issues. (As congressman, because of Bush 41’s support owner in the dog-eat-dog capitalist category of retailing, I of birth control, his nickname was “Rubbers.”) Bush was a am an arch-capitalist. I can understand both sides pretty tough fighter pilot. He headed the CIA. Yet somehow Rea- well because my temperament is a combination of a Sun- gan (who was a movie actor during the war) came across day school teacher and a venture capitalist, which can be as strong and Bush as a wimp. While Reagan was also a contradictory at times. HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 6 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Thursday, March 8, 2012

The Romney capitalist friends (like peo- ple) see the world in financial, transactional terms. They How big will the Dem are the stereotypes of males. Let’s fix the problem, not discuss “feelings.” How much money will it take to do this? Who do we need to hire? What’s their price? Can’t we just crossover be in primary? offer Santorum something? By JACK COLWELL When you talk “heart” to them, they think “blood SOUTH BEND - The Indiana presidential primary pressure as in heart attacks.” could again have real significance. If it does, again drawing The Romney political establishment thinks that national attention as it did in 2008, the focus this time will the years of hard work means that they deserve respect. be on selection of the Republican nominee. They believe that people should realize that their years of Democrats, however, could have a voice in the GOP experience should be heeded. When they say that Santo- selection. rum can’t win the general election, they should bow down In fact, with no races in the Indiana Democratic and acknowledge that they are smarter. primary for president, governor or senator, Democrats I have been on both sides of this. Whoever wins, could be tempted to vote in the Republican primary for a even if you are anti-establishment when elected, you GOP presidential nominee and to help or hurt Sen. Dick “become” the establishment. Presumably, if you listen and Lugar. learn, experience does add knowledge. But people do not Democratic influence in the Repub- like being told what to do. lican primary would be the reverse Ask Senator of Oklahoma, who was of what sought in the epitome of anti-establishment but who endorsed Rom- 2008, when the radio commenta- ney (along with legendary Oklahoma political powerhouses tor urged Hoosier Republicans, with former Governor Keating and former Senator Nickles) and their presidential nomination no lon- lost. In Tennessee, legendary political powerhouse gover- ger in doubt, to vote in the Demo- nor and current Senator Lamar Alexander (along with the cratic primary for . sitting governor and most congressmen) backed Romney. Why? Santorum absolutely walloped the entire Tennessee estab- It was part of Limbaugh’s “Opera- lishment. In North Dakota former overnor and now Senator tion Chaos,” an effort to prolong a Hoeven is supposed to be king. Not after the primary. potentially divisive contest between was even worse for the establishment. Clinton and and thus weaken the eventual Outspending Santorum 12 to 1 (best estimate), with the Democratic nominee. endorsements of almost all leaders except Attorney Gen- Just before the Michigan primary last Tuesday, eral Mike DeWine, it was a dead heat. Ohio is not the deep Rick Santorum sought with a “robocall” blitz to convince evangelical south. Santorum won Toledo (Lucas), and was Democrats to vote in the Republican primary for him. The close in Columbus and Dayton. Only my good friend Sena- automated calls, aimed especially at auto workers and tor Rob Portman came out strong by delivering Cincinnati others with jobs saved by the federal auto rescue, included by a huge margin, saving the victory for Romney. this message: “Romney supported the bailouts for his Wall No wonder every single establishment voice wants Street billionaire buddies, but opposed the auto bailouts. Santorum out. That is a slap in the face of every Michigan worker.” (San- Look at the March schedule. Without an upset or torum also opposed the auto bailout. That of course wasn’t two, Romney will likely lose ground in March. April should mentioned in the calls.) be a decent month for him, but remember this: the WWF Mitt Romney called it “a dirty trick.” Said Romney: lady won the Connecticut Senate primary over establish- “It’s outrageous to see Rick Santorum team up with the ment favored Rob Simmons, the “I’m not a witch lady” Obama people and go out after the union labor in Detroit defeated Delaware institution , and in New York, to try to get them to vote against me. Look, we don’t want Paladino was the Tea Party guy who won the gubernatorial Democrats deciding who our nominee’s going to be.” nomination. Crossover efforts aren’t new and aren’t restricted If I were part of the establishment, I’d be panicked to one party or the other. Romney, explaining his own past v too. voting in Democratic primaries, has said he did so, when there were no Republican contests, in order to support the Souder is a former Republican member of Congress. weakest Democratic candidate. (He didn’t bring that up in Michigan.) But what really is the effect of these efforts? HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 7 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Thursday, March 8, 2012

Well, Romney won in Michigan, narrowly, but blunt- ing Santorum’s momentum and preventing a disastrous loss On the policy front, of his native state. Probably some Democrats did vote for Santorum. Probably some voted for Romney. In the 2008 Democratic primary in Indiana, Clinton Pence and Gregg are won narrowly. Limbaugh claimed his radio appeals were decisive. But there is no proof of a “Limbaugh effect.” Exit off to slow start polls didn’t show much and aren’t very accurate anyway. No doubt there were some Republicans who By BRIAN A. HOWEY crossed to the Democratic primary to vote for Clinton. INDIANAPOLIS - It was May 2011 - going on 10 Probably some crossed to vote for Obama. months ago - that Republican announced he Why? would run for governor and Democrat John Gregg formed To pick the weakest candidate? I’m not sure much an exploratory committee. of that occurs. Most people are pretty serious about their But unlike the campaign of Doc Bowen in 1972, votes for president. Most wouldn’t want to help nominate which from the get-go had a somebody weak who might well go on to be president of defining issue - promised the . reform - the policy side of this Voters crossing over are more likely to do so for race for governor has taken a somebody they like, especially if their own party wasn’t of- back seat to the $6.7 million fering a choice they admired. the two candidates raised last Santorum, who finally made it on the Indiana May year. In 2003, 8 primary ballot, will try to appeal to Hoosier Democrats. had his “Indiana Comeback He could get some. So could Romney. Those who switch Roadmap” and had begun to over are more likely to do so to vote for a candidate they roll out some policy as he toured the state. Later that year like than to sabotage the other side. he was gleaning information from the array of local officials There could be Democrats switching to the GOP he was talking with during his RV1 tours. primary for the Senate race as well as for the presidential But thus far with Pence and Gregg, there have nomination contest. been no major policy white paper which had been a staple In St. Joseph County, where there are very few in John Mutz’s 1988 campaign. There have been no major Democratic contests, some Democrats could vote in the policy speeches. There have been no press conferences of- Republican primary to support Sen. Lugar. The Republican fering policy details. senator has in past elections carried the traditionally Demo- cratic county by wide margins, getting substantial Demo- cratic as well as Republican vote support in the fall. Those Democrats who regard Lugar as a statesman - a conservative they don’t always agree with, but still a statesman - could decide to help him stave off the chal- lenge from Richard Mourdock, the Tea Party favorite. Other Democrats, if playing the sabotage game, could vote for Mourdock, regarded as a weaker fall op- ponent for Congressman , who will be the Democratic senatorial nominee. Democrats will have some voice in the GOP, but we don’t know how loud or what they will say. v

Colwell has been covering Indiana politics over five decades for the South Bend Tribune.

Mike Pence outside the Statehouse after filing his ballot petitions in February. HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 8 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Thursday, March 8, 2012

The Indiana University Public Policy Institute, in Exchange Council (ALEC), where he worked with state leg­ its “Policy Choices for Indiana’s Future,” told a conference islators nationwide to develop and implement fiscal policies headed by Chief Justice Randall T. Shepard on Feb. 17 that consistent with the Jeffersonian principles of free markets the state faces daunting challenges. The state ranks 41st in and . the nation in per capita income, last in the Midwest; a 16% Both Atkins and Campbell are Wabash College percent poverty rate, in the bottom third nationally; about graduates. 30 percent of Indiana’s population aged 25 and older has The Pence campaign told HPI that it has more earned an associate’s degree or higher; and the state is “at than 300 policy volunteers assigned to 14 working groups or near the bottom among Midwest states for educational that Pence calls the “idea factory.” The groups are co- attainment.” ordinating with Atkins. The 14 groups include Economic There is also the per- Growth and Jobs, Fiscal Policy sistent 9% jobless rate and an and Government Reform, Educa- out-of-wedlock birth rate over tion, Workforce, Health Care and 40%. The state faces an array of Social Services, Transportation infrastructure needs despite Dan- and Infrastructure, Regulatory, iels’ much heralded Major Moves Public Safety, Veterans, Gaming, program and billions of dollars of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Obama stimulus money. Judiciary and Legal Affairs, Fed- IU’s Public Policy Insti- eralism, and Energy and Environ- tute reported where the state ment. Pence has also worked in “should be”: By 2018, 55 percent numerous policy discussions with of Indiana’s jobs will require some business roundtables around the postsecondary education. Lumina state. Foundation says we should aim Pence does not have a for 60 percent by 2025. And many website policy section either, but of the jobs can be filled by indi- the campaign pointed to several viduals with less than a four-year news stories going back to last college degree, but more than a Democratic John Gregg has brought on former India- summer in which he talks with- high school diploma. napolis Deputy Mayor Steve Campbell to develop policy. out much detail on the issues. Neither the Pence or So, what do we know Gregg websites have “policy” about the skeletal framework of sections. Gregg has a button marked “issues,” but once emerging Gregg and Pence policy? clicked, it becomes a request for information. “John has Gregg in his campaign kickoff speech talked about been traveling around the great state of Indiana listening “basic challenges and the practical responses required.” to Hoosiers discuss the issues that effect them the most,” Gregg has said that “our competitors have it reads. “If you would like to share an issue that concerns changed” and that we “spend too much time looking over you, please fill out and send the form below. It’s contribu- our shoulder at Illinois, when we should be looking out for tions from Hoosiers like you that will help build a better India.” Gregg believes that “our kids aren’t learning the Indiana. Let’s get to work.” skills they need” and says that “too many workers are stuck Gregg has retained former Indianapolis Deputy on jobs and technology that have moved on without them.” Mayor Steve Campbell to head up his policy work. Camp- The former Democratic speaker said that he will bell, who served under Mayor Bart Peterson, was deputy spend “every waking moment reversing these trends.” mayor for neighborhoods. He was communications director But how? for Gov. Frank O’Bannon and served as deputy press secre- There are a lot of broad themes, but not much tary to Gov. Evan Bayh. on specifics. Gregg says that we must “ensure that our Pence’s key policy guy is Chris Atkins, a former business climate is modern, competitive and affordable” general counsel and policy director in the State of Indiana’s and that economic development takes place from a “re- Office of Management and Budget in the Daniels’ adminis- gional perspective.” That is somewhat of a breakthrough tration. Before that, Atkins was senior tax counsel and di- from Gregg as speaker, who once said the three things rector of state fiscal projects at the ,­ where Hoosiers tend to be against are “communism, regional he specialized in analyzing federal, state and international government and Daylight Saving Time.” tax policy from a legal and economic perspective. He was Gregg explained, “We need growth plans for each director of tax and fiscal policy at the American Legislative region of our state focused on their unique competitive HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 9 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Thursday, March 8, 2012

strengths. And we must end destructive beggar-thy-neigh- Last August, Pence told the Evansville Courier bor policies and remember that we will not move ahead by & Press that he will complete the I-69 project between leaving other Indiana communities behind. We must double Evansville and Indianapolis. The newspaper reported: By down on the sectors in which we already excel, like life the time Gov. Mitch Daniels leaves office in January 2013, sciences, logistics, advanced manufacturing and agribusi- Indiana will have spent nearly $1 billion on construction of ness. I applaud Governor Daniels for his efforts to improve the approximately 90-mile stretch of Interstate 69 between our business climate and attract new sectors to Indiana. Evansville and the Crane Naval Surface Warfare Center in But we must do more to attract the industries of tomorrow, Martin County. By that time, too, another section of the like alternative energy, which could end up being the silicon road will be under construction, and that piece will estab- chip of the 21st century, clean and other new tech- lish a highway connection from Evansville to Bloomington. nologies.” That will mean four of the six sections into which the 142- Gregg has also called for an “unprecedented mile project is divided will be moving toward to completion. focus on Hoosier small businesses. We will continue to pur- But the newspaper reported: A spokesman said sue large job-creating projects, but cutting the ribbon on Pence will unveil more detailed plans for how he would a 10-person shop will be just as important to me.” And he handle the remaining stretch of the I-69 extension closer to says “We must ensure that Indiana companies are afforded the 2012 elections. every advantage in overseas trade agreements. While the gubernatorial campaigns have lagged in does not mean unfair trade, and the days of selling out specifics, there are developments in other quarters. The American companies in the name of free trade must end.” Indiana Chamber of Commerce just released its “Indiana Pence’s policy stances have gradually come out Vision 2025: A Plan for Hoosier Prosperity.” It lists four since last summer. The campaign bristled when a State- “drivers” that include developing “outstanding talent,” an house reporter predicted early last summer that the con- “attractive business climate,” along with “superior infra- gressman wouldn’t announce policy until after the primary. structure” and a “dynamic and creative culture.” Last August, the Associated Press reported that Developed by Chamber Vice President J. Pence would like to cut Indiana income taxes, reduce the Cameron Carter, it cites an array of goals from a 90% high state’s individual and corporate tax rates to 3 percent. school graduation rate, a 60% college graduation rate to The state’s individual tax rate is now 3.4 percent and the reform of state pension systems, a streamlining of the state corporate rate is 8.5 percent. And he backs the repeal of tax code, and the reduction by 15% of population smoking the , which is poised to pass the General As- levels and a 20% reduction in obesity. It also calls for more sembly this week. He told WANE-TV in Fort Wayne that he aggressively promoted business start-ups and an increase would like to reduce Indiana’s second-highest in the nation in exports to “Top 5” ranking nationally per capita. sales tax. Pence has yet to say how the state might recoup IU’s Public Policy Institute had an afternoon policy money from those tax cuts. session in February that drew about 100 movers and shak- Pence has talked about education reforms. He told ers from around the state where they discussed energy and the Warsaw Times-Union in December that he would like the environment, state and local tax policy, and education to cut regulation and expand educational choice. “Right and workforce development. The goal of Policy Choices is now Hoosiers are faced with an avalanche of regulations to start the discussion among government, nonprofit, and and taxes that threaten our freedom,” Pence said. He said private sector leaders about these topics now - to provide he will fight for every Hoosier to work, live and run schools policy options for action. Recognizing that these are long- without unnecessary “government intrusion.” He said the range issues, PPI will continue to analyze these questions best stimulus plan is less taxes and red tape and more and engage leaders, policy makers, and other partners in fiscal responsibility. Pence said, if elected, he will cut taxes continuing the discussions. The conclusions will be present- for working families, small businesses and family farms and ed to the gubernatorial contenders. encourage investment and growth. So policy evolution in this race is taking hold later “I will look for ways to fund excellence in edu- than recent races. With the General Assembly’s sine die cation and promote ways for every Hoosier child through on Friday, no primary opposition, and the state conven- more school choices and charter schools,” Pence said. He tions still more than three months away, the policy zone told the Fort Wayne Journal Gazette last August, “I think will almost certainly come to life in the coming weeks. If it competition between schools – between traditional pub- doesn’t, that would be an ominous development for a state lic schools and public charter schools and between public with a wide range of needs. v schools and private schools – will just make all our schools better.” But thus far, there is little detail on how he would seek to achieve those goals. HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 10 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Thursday, March 8, 2012

DO OR DIE WEEK FOR HATCH: Sen. Orrin HPI Forecast: Siegle to Hatch’s (R-Utah) political career will be on the line in the next week (The Hill). Utah’s primary is still months away, but Hatch’s future is likely to be determined at the March Supremes, Massa to SoS 15 Utah Republican caucuses, making this a do-or-die week By BRIAN A. HOWEY for the six-term senator. The state has a convoluted nomi- INDIANAPOLIS - Awaiting a judicial decision from nation process: Its caucuses select delegates to the state the Indiana Supreme Court on who the next secretary of convention, where the party determines whether to hold a state will be, Gov. Mitch Daniels suggested last week that if primary. Tea Party activists packed the convention and de- the decision is his, he has a nominee. feated Sen. Bob Bennett (R-Utah) there two years ago, and “I’ve got a good idea who I think would be best, hope to do so this year to beat Hatch. But unlike Bennett, yes,” Daniels said Friday when asked whether he’d decided Hatch is ready for the fight. “We’ve been at this campaign who he would appoint to replace the felonious and deposed for a year and our focus has been on the caucuses,” said Charlie White. “Obviously I’ve thought about it, but let’s Hatch campaign manager Dave Hansen. “We take them find out whether there’s a duty very seriously. Are we focused on them? Absolutely.” to make that appointment.” The decision may come 5th CD: Burton endorses Seybold in tandem with the selection U.S. Rep. Dan Burton is endorsing Marion Mayor of the next Supreme Court Wayne Seybold to succeed him in Congress saying “be- justice to replace Chief Justice cause he has been an outstanding mayor; he has worked Randall T. Shepard. tirelessly to bring thousands of jobs to both Marion and the The finalists there are state of Indiana. Wayne is an honorable man and a strong former Daniels counsel Mark conservative, which is consistent with the people of the 5th Massa, Appellate Court Judge Cale Bradford, and attorney District. I think Wayne will do a great job and I fully sup- Jane Siegle. port him.” Daniels suggested that “gender” might be the tie- 5th District County Chairmen Craig Dunn, Andy breaker. Dudelston, and Jerry Shull, have thrown their support HPI Forecast: We project Siegle will be named behind Seybold to replace Burton as Indiana’s 5th Dis- the Indiana Supreme Court and Massa will be named the trict Representative in the U.S. Congress. next secretary of state if Daniels gets that choice. “Wayne Seybold is a talented conservative mayor and a dynamic leader. He is truly one of the rising stars in U.S. Senate: Tea Party files suit v. Lugar the Republican Party and Wayne will make a great Con- Indiana tea partiers filed suit in court Wednesday gressman,” said Dunn, Howard County GOP Chairman. in an attempt to remove U.S. Sen. from the Grant County GOP May primary ballot (Indianapolis Star). Eric Bohnet argues Chairman Jerry Shull in a lawsuit filed in Marion Circuit Court in Indianapolis added, “Wayne has that Lugar is not qualified to run for re-election because he been a great leader lives in Virginia. “By virtue of having maintained a home both in Marion and in in Virginia as his sole residence for nearly 35 years, Lugar all of Grant County. has become an inhabitant of Virginia rather than Indiana,” His tireless efforts have Bohnet writes in the complaint. A pair of Indiana attor- turned Marion into one ney generals has upheld that Lugar can still call himself a of Indiana’s great suc- resident of Indiana while living in Virginia because he is cess stories. Wayne’s away on official state business: representing the state in ‘can do’ spirit and Congress. The Indiana Election Commission agreed with tireless work ethic is that interpretation two weeks ago and voted unanimously just what Washington to keep Lugar on the ballot. The suit names the four mem- needs.” bers of the election commission as defendants. Commis- The Contract sion Chairman Dan Dumezich did not immediately return a from America Founda- request for comment Wednesday but has previously said tion announced today he respects voters’ right to appeal commission decisions that David McIntosh (R-IN) has joined more in court. Lugar spokesman David Willkie says he is “not U.S. Rep. Dan Burton (right) endorsed 70 national officehold- surprised” by the challenge and called the suit a “waste of Marion Mayor Wayne Seybold to suc- ers and 230 candidates taxpayer money.” ceed him in the 5th CD. HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 11 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Thursday, March 8, 2012

nationwide in signing Analysis report released annually. “The Indiana Chamber the “Contract from is our state’s biggest and best champion of free enterprise America,” a freedom- and job growth. I am honored by their support and look based legislative forward to working with them on policies that will jump blueprint for 2012 start the economy and put Hoosiers back to work,” said and beyond cre- Luke Messer. ated with the input of over 450,000 9th CD: More nods for Winningham conservative activ- 9th CD Democrat Robert Winningham announced ists (Howey Politics that he has received the endorsement of State Senator Indiana). “In signing the , David Richard Young of Milltown. “Robert Winningham’s passion McIntosh has shown his commitment to championing Main is creating jobs,” stated Young in endorsing Winningham. Street and Tea Party values,” said Ryan Hecker, creator of “I’m endorsing Robert because he understands the strug- the crowd-sourced Contract from America. “McIntosh has gles of working Hoosiers and has the experience to change pledged to listen to his constituents and be a true grass- the lives of Hoosiers.” Horse Race Primary Status: roots conservative leader in Congress.” “I’m proud to be Leans Winningham the 5th District’s sole signer of the Contract from America,” McIntosh said. “If I’m fortunate enough to be elected to Indiana House: Chamber endorses Rider represent my fellow Hoosiers in Washington, I pledge to do The Indiana Chamber of Commerce, the state’s all I can to advance the objectives of the Contract: restore leading business organization, this week announced its individual liberty and economic freedom by ending Wash- endorsement of Brad Rider for the Republican primary elec- ington’s destructive patterns of out-of-control spending and tion to the Indiana House of Representatives, District 92. over-regulation. The Contract from America is a powerful The endorsement was made by Indiana Business for Re- tool for ensuring that those of us who seek the public’s sponsive Government (IBRG), the nonpartisan political pro- trust keep it.” gram of the Indiana Chamber. “As a small business person, Susan Brooks unveiled her first television com- Brad Rider understands the need to grow our economy and mercial aimed at Republican voters in the 5th CD (Howey to create jobs for Hoosiers. He will be a strong supporter of Politics Indiana). “Restoring the promise of America for free enterprise and a very energetic and involved legislator future generations begins with reining in our spending and for his constituents,” said Jeff Brantley, vice president of debt,” said Brooks. In the commercial, Brooks calls her political affairs for the Indiana Chamber of Commerce. real opponents the “big spenders in Washington.” The spot Indianapolis Star columnist Russ Pulliam featured begins airing today and reaches voters in all eight coun- the Republican primary in HD24. Pulliam called the race ties in CD5. View the commercial at www.YouTube.com/ a “David-Goliath scenario.” Mindi McMillan, an energetic SusanBrooks2012. Primary Horse Race Status: Leans mother of six, is running against Steve Braun, a business McIntosh entrepreneur and multimillionaire. Both candidates are Republican conservatives who live in Zionsville. Pulliam 6th CD: Chamber endorses Messer observed, “Whoever wins the May 8 primary for House Dis- The Indiana Chamber of Commerce, the state’s trict 24 likely will win the fall election in the overwhelmingly leading business organization, announced today its en- Republican district, which includes parts of Zionsville, West- dorsement of Luke Messer for the Sixth District seat in the field and Carmel. Braun has several advantages. He was U.S. House of Representatives. The endorsement was the first person from Jasper, Ind., to go to Harvard Univer- made by the Indiana Chamber Congressional Action Com- sity. He’s been successful in business, growing a software mittee, the federal political action committee of the Indiana consulting company that he later sold. He likes the Mitch Chamber. “After meeting the candidates and looking at Daniels model of efficiency in state government and wants their records, we are confident that Luke Messer will make to bring competitive free-market experience to the House.” an outstanding congressman and is the best candidate in “I’m a believer in putting business principles into this primary election race,” said Kevin Brinegar, president government,” said Braun. He donated $15,000 to the of the Indiana Chamber of Commerce. “Luke Messer has a House Republican Campaign Committee in 2010 and has real record of support for pro-growth, pro-jobs policies and the committee’s backing in this race. He’s also putting his getting things done.” As a member of the Indiana General own money into the campaign. McMillan, who operates a Assembly, Messer achieved a very strong voting score of dog-breeding business, echoes populist themes. She won’t 96% on economic, jobs and business issues, according be able to raise the money that Braun can pour into the to the Indiana Chamber’s comprehensive Legislative Vote race, but she has many personal contacts in the district. v HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 12 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Thursday, March 8, 2012

ings) succinctly tell the economic story of any area. At the Economist skills state and metro levels, these data are available monthly and are the freshest information we have on how the economy is going. Other numbers may be more accurate can be improved or more detailed, but these are the most up-to-date figures By MORTON J. MARCUS you can get.” INDIANAPOLIS - “Psst, bud,” the voice spoke from “Doin’ swell, kid,” he told me. “Now put the whipped the shadows. cream on the top.” “Wanna earn a few bucks ...easy like?” “When you multiply these three ratios together,” “How’s that?” I questioned. “Simple,” the voice I said, “you come up with the big payoff: the aggregate answered with a raspy sound. “All youse gotta do is read weekly earnings in the state or metro area. Now you are off some numbers and peepule will pay ya. It don’t take no talking dollars. Dollars for groceries and the gas pump. Dol- trainin’ to be an economist.” lars for taxes and for toys. Dollars for savings or for health “Sounds intriguing,” I said. “Could I pull it off?” care. “Sirtunly,” he assured me. “Just read from this page “For the U.S., aggregate earnings or total payroll ‘n’ folks will shove a few bucks in ya hand or in ya hat if ya rose by 4.3 percent December to December. But in Indiana leave it on da ground.” the increase was a mere 1.5 percent.” He gave me the page. It had the names of the “Ya got it kid,” he said. “Now put the cherry on states down the left side and numbers in columns. I read, da crown. Tell ‘em how dis ain’t wut da officials of da state hesitantly from the top: “Basic aspects of short-term eco- government is tellin’ dem.” nomic change. Ratios for December of 2011 compared with “No,” I said firmly. “If I am to be an economist, December 2010.” my statements should be without political commentary. I “No bad, for a beginner,” he should be sterile, neutral, non-judgmental and, most of all, said. “Now put some emotion behind non-controversial.” it. Sell it.” “But kid,” he reproached me, “if ya wanna make da “Jobs in the United States were big bucks, ya gotta give ‘em wut dey want. Ya dress up in 1.0197 compared to 1.0110 for Indi- somethin’ neutral, but ya make sure dey get to see plenty ana,” I said. of wut dey is lookin’ fur.” “Stop!” he shouted. “Where’s da “Maybe that’s why I’m not making the big bucks,” I life wut’s in doze data? Ya gotta trans- said. v late as ya go. Now try it agin.” “Jobs rose across the nation by Mr. Marcus is an independent economist, speaker, nearly 2 percent between December and writer. 2010 and the same month in 2011,” I said. “Indiana advanced by just 1.1 percent, 33rd in the nation.” “Now youse is gettin’ sum rhythm,” he said. “Keep it Daniels promots healthy rivers rollin’.” “The average time Hoosiers spent working each TURKEY RUN - Several Parke County students met week in December 2011,” I said, “was down 1.1 percent Wednesday with Gov. Mitch Daniels and learned firsthand while nationally average weekly hours advanced slightly. about the state’s efforts to conserve land in the students’ Average hourly earnings for workers in Indiana were up 1.5 own back yard along Sugar Creek (Terre Haute Tribune- percent, lagging the nation’s 2.0 percent increase.” Star). About a dozen students who attend Turkey Run Com- “Now take it home,” he encouraged, “let ‘em smell munity schools heard from the governor and Department the sizzle.” of Natural Resources staff. They gathered in a picturesque “And what do these numbers tell us?” I asked area surrounded by woods and ravines, with Sugar Creek my imaginary audience. “Let me tell you. They say that as close by. “I guess you guys know this, but the rest of us [in 2011 ended, Indiana saw an increase in jobs and hourly Indiana] are so jealous you get to live here,” Daniels told wages, but not as much of an increase as the nation saw. the students on a warm, windy day. “I hope you don’t get On top of that, the number of hours workers in Indiana so used to it that you ever take it for granted.” They gath- were employed actually fell while the nation saw an in- ered on land owned by the Nature Conservancy of Indiana crease in this indicator. that the state is in the process of acquiring as part of the “These three factors (jobs, hours, and hourly earn- Healthy Rivers Initiative. v HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 13 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Thursday, March 8, 2012

that too many kids are kept too long in potentially abusive Cheap doesn’t work settings rather than removed and placed in foster care or residential placement – because of money. The Fort Wayne Journal Gazette stated the case with child protection well in a recent editorial when the paper said “the dirty By SHAW R. FRIEDMAN little secret behind Indiana’s budget surplus is exactly how LAPORTE - We’ve just gone through a month of it came to be. Not the bounty of a booming economy but some tough investigative reporting by both the Indianapolis the result of nicks, cuts and downright slashing of pro- Star and South Bend Tribune and both newspapers have grams critical to the safety of vulnerable Hoosiers and to come to the conclusion that longtime observers of Indiana’s the economic future of all its residents.” troubled child protection system long ago reached: Cheap The paper then went on to say that “nowhere doesn’t work when it comes have the cuts been as deep and as dangerous as in the to kids’ services. Department of Child Services, where almost $104 million The Governor can give all allocated by the Indiana General Assembly was returned the pep talks to beleaguered unspent in the past fiscal year. The current biennial budget DCS workers like he did last slashed an additional 15% from spending on child protec- Friday in Indianapolis when tion. The results: Programs intended to prevent and treat he – true to his deeply parti- child abuse and neglect – eliminated. Fewer kids receiving san nature – accused Demo- services. And, tragically, some children dying.” crats of “grandstanding” the Those of limited vision like Mitch Daniels and Jim issue, but those hardworking Payne pride themselves on being budget cutters and claim employees at the agency with much hubris to deliver “more for less.” Maybe the aren’t to blame. business model worked at a place like BMV, but the needs Just like when the Gover- are wholly different in social services. In this case, they are nor (and his sidekick Mitch delivering ‘less for less’ and they simply can’t put lipstick Roob) thought they could take on this pig. The Journal Gazette ended their editorial quite a one-size-fits all computerized business model to intake simply: “Early efforts by Gov. Daniels administration to and eligibility for food stamps and TANF which resulted in improve long-standing problems in child protection looked the FSSA/IBM debacle that is now playing out in a Marion promising, beginning with separating it from the cumber- County courtroom. The Governor and his DCS department some and bureaucratic FSSA. Somewhere along the way, head James Payne failed to learn from past mistakes. however, an emphasis on saving money overtook the com- How else to explain a centralized call center in mitment to protecting children. It’s past time to reorder v Indianapolis for abuse and neglect calls where so many of priorities.” the calls are being “screened out” under a one-size-fits- all questionnaire that once again strips local control and Shaw R. Friedman is a LaPorte attorney and a regu- resources from those who know best? lar HPI contributor. Rather than having those calls go to local DCS of- fices where caseworkers have a network of contacts includ- ing law enforcement and the courts where they can follow- up and investigate, now all calls go through the centralized office. As the South Bend Tribune put it on February 12th, “centralization has cut ties among agencies that used to work together.” St. Joseph County Probate Judge Peter Ne- meth, a veteran of juvenile issues says bluntly “the local folks don’t have much say, in my opinion. I think a cult has been created of ‘do the least you can do for the children.’” Nemeth is only one of a number of juvenile court judges and service providers critical of the system designed by Jim Payne to strip authority and funds from local courts and county DCS offices. Chief among the concerns regarding the Adminis- tration’s highly touted “Safely Home, Families First” policy is HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 14 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Thursday, March 8, 2012

Kenneth Tomlinson, Weekly Standard: In the coroner’s race, there are no incumbents because the After a lifetime of political good fortune in Indiana, Sena- current office holder, Tom Philpot, did not file for re-elec- tor Richard Lugar can’t catch a break. He is facing what tion. But there was a surprise in Hammond’s endorsement calls his “toughest reelection campaign in decades,” of Merrillee Frey, a political newbie, for that office. Some and with the May 8 GOP primary looming, he desperately of that, I think, had to do with one of the front-runners needs to repair relations with party conservatives. In few making comments about how Hammond’s glory days are states is the party base as certifiably conservative as in in the past. George Deliopolous, a veteran investigator for Indiana. One poll shows 70 percent of the state’s Repub- the coroner, made those remarks only to be followed by licans respect the Tea Party — and few issues raise the Frye, who painted a much more rosy picture of the future ire of these party activists like congressional earmarks of Hammond. “I can’t believe he said that,” McDermott in spending bills. So what does Lugar do? Three months said. I can’t either — not if he wanted the precinct organi- before the primary, when the Senate had a chance to ban zation’s endorsement. In one of the county’s hottest races, this symbol of big-government malfeasance, Lugar joined one in which the precinct organization could not endorse, with Harry Reid in a key Senate vote to save earmarking. 2nd District Lake County Commissioner Gerry Scheub is the Lugar’s primary foe, Indiana treasurer Richard Mourdock, beneficiary of the blanket incumbent endorsement. And immediately hit statewide television with ads that not only McDermott predicted Scheub will be victorious over chal- decried the Senate vote but also exposed Lugar’s support lenger Roy Dominguez, the county’s former sheriff. “I think over the years for such infamous earmarks as Scheub will be easily re-elected, and I don’t say this just Alaska’s bridge to nowhere, a rainforest for Iowa, because Roy and I don’t get along,” McDermott and a teapot museum for North Carolina. “Dick said. “Roy Dominguez has burned almost every Lugar won’t vote to end wasteful spending and bridge he can burn.” It will be interesting to see if earmarks. I will,” Mourdock declared. A couple Hammond is a bellwether of county voting, given of days later Mourdock was back on television that McDermott is county chairman. v holding a news conference in front of the In- dianapolis home Lugar lists as his official voting , Washington Post: Today, address — despite the fact that he sold the house 35 years conservatives dismayed about the Republican presiden- ago and has lived in McLean, Virginia, ever since. Lugar’s tial spectacle may write a codicil to what is called the spokesman compounded the political damage when he Buckley Rule. He said that in any election, conservatives sought to justify Lugar’s not having a residence back home should vote for the most electable conservative. The codicil in Indiana: “It’s just like the United States military. If you’re might be: Unless the nomination or election of a particu- . . . in service to this country and you’re overseas, you keep lar conservative would mean a net long-term subtraction your last place of residence.” One newspaper mocked the from conservatism’s strength. If nominated, Mitt Romney response with the headline: “Lugar ‘in defense’ of country and Rick Santorum might not cause such subtraction. Both from Virginia.” v are conservatives, although of strikingly different stripes. Neither, however, seems likely to be elected. Neither has Mark Kiesling, NWI Times: Voting in Lake Coun- demonstrated, or seems likely to develop, an aptitude ty’s largest Democratic organization resulted in a couple of for energizing a national coalition that translates into 270 surprises Monday night. Not only is the Hammond precinct electoral votes. If either is nominated, conservatives should organization the largest, but Mayor Tom McDermott Jr. is vote for him. But suppose the accumulation of evidence the county’s Democratic chairman, which makes it even eventually suggests that the nomination of either would more significant. Maybe the biggest surprise of the evening subtract from the long-term project of making conservatism was that incumbent Surveyor George Van Til was not slated intellectually coherent and politically palatable. If so, there and that the party’s endorsement went to John Garcia, would come a point when, taking stock of reality, conserva- who was beaten four years ago by Van Til. It could be a tives turn their energies to a goal much more attainable surprise, as McDermott asked for a blanket endorsement than, and not much less important than, electing Romney of all incumbents. But you also have to take into account or Santorum president. It is the goal of retaining control that Garcia is the owner of a Hammond engineering firm. of the House and winning control of the Senate. Several “Garcia got two-thirds of the vote, and that’s interesting,” possible Supreme Court nominations and the staffing of the McDermott said Tuesday. “I was shocked Mr. Van Til did regulatory state are among the important reasons conser- not do as well. “I know he sent me an ugly text because vatives should try to elect whomever the GOP nominates. he didn’t like the results.” Van Til needs to deal with it. But conservatives this year should have as their primary Why send McDermott an angry text? He came out as party goal making sure Republicans wield all the gavels in Con- chairman with the blanket endorsement of all incumbents. gress in 2013. v HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 15 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Thursday, March 8, 2012

Compromise on smoking ban INDIANAPOLIS - A joint House-Senate committee has reached a preliminary compromise on a state- wide smoking ban (Indianapolis Star). Committee member Charlie Brown, a Democrat House representative from Gary, said it’s in the hands of Sen- ate Republicans now. If they sign off, the legislation could go to the House and Senate for votes by Friday. Here are some of the details: Brown said bars would be exempted under the ban, able to allow smoking. Nonprofit private clubs and fraternal organiza- tions that vote to allow smoking could State homeland security officials say Indiana hospitals treated at least 77 people who have children on the property. How- were injured in last week’s deadly tornadoes. The agency said Wednesday that the 77 ever, smoking tornado-related injuries the hospitals have reported do not include people who were must be limited treated by first responders or other medical personnel in the field.ednesday’s W update to a designated, on the tornadoes that killed 13 Indiana residents also said officials estimate that last Fri- enclosed area. day’s tornadoes left behind one million cubic yards of green debris such as trees limbs Exemptions for and 100 cubic yards of regular debris in hard-hit Clark County in southern Indiana. That mental health initial estimate does not include damage to the town of Henryville’s high school. and nursing fa- cilities would be now apparently fully embraced the removed. An exemption for at-home Rev. Robertson calls idea of legalizing marijuana, arguing businesses would remain, so long that it is a way to bring down soaring as only people who live in the home for legal marijuana rates of incarceration and reduce the work at the business. The committee WASHINGTON - Of the many social and financial costs. “I believe in has been negotiating a final version roles Pat Robertson has assumed working with the hearts of people, and all week. The House Jan. 31 passed over his five-decade-long career as not locking them up,” he said. legislation that exempted certain gam- an evangelical leader — including ing facilities, cigar/hookah bars, retail presidential candidate and provocative tobacco stores, nonprofit private clubs voice of the right wing — his new- FOP doesn’t like and fraternal organizations. The Sen- est guise may perhaps surprise his ate, led by the efforts of Republicans, followers the most: marijuana legal- ization advocate. “I really believe we police entry bill this month tacked on exemptions for INDIANAPOLIS - A lead- should treat marijuana the way we bingo halls, mental-health facilities, ing police organization continues to treat beverage alcohol,” Mr. Robertson nursing homes, at-home businesses fight proposed legislation that spells said in an interview on Wednesday. and bars. While senators are mulling out when residents might be legally “I’ve never used marijuana and I don’t over the proposal, Brown isn’t sure he justified in using force against police intend to, but it’s just one of those can vote for a ban that inlcudes bars. officers (Associated Press). Indiana things that I think: this war on drugs At the same time, he’d like to see the Fraternal Order of Police attorney Leo just hasn’t succeeded.” Mr. Robert- state pass a ban this year. “That’s the Blackwell told lawmakers Wednesday son’s remarks echoed statements he conundrum,” he said. “Do I accept the his group worries the proposal will made last week on “The 700 Club,” fact that all bars and all private clubs give people justification for attacking the signature program of his Christian are exempt? Do we want to come officers. The bill is in response to a Broadcasting Network, and other com- back and fight the whole thing all over public uproar over a state Supreme ments he made in 2010. While those again?” Court ruling last year that residents earlier remarks were largely dismissed couldn’t resist officers even during by his followers, Mr. Robertson has an illegal entry. House and Senate HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 16 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Thursday, March 8, 2012

negotiators are trying to reach a com- better if the federal government had rules and traditions, aimed at mol- promise on the measure that specifies never gone into the banking business. lifying conservatives who are upset people are protected by the state’s Companies like Carbon that might that one of those specialty plates has self-defense law if they reasonably have proceeded and succeeded with been given to a support group for gay believe force is necessary to protect a conventional business plan were youths. Sen. Ed Soliday, R-Valparaiso, themselves from unlawful actions by seduced into wasting irreplaceable said multiple versions of an amend- an officer. They plan to offer a pro- years chasing federal subsidies that ment were being drafted to cut down posal before Friday’s planned adjourn- never happened. As President Reagan on the number of specialty plates and ment of the legislative session. once said, ‘When you get in bed with put lawmakers in charge of who gets the federal government, you get a lot them. The issue is expected to be more than a good night’s sleep.’” inserted into Senate Bill 257, which 4 Hoosiers on also deals with motor vehicle issues. billionaire list Soliday initially changed another bill, College credit bill Senate Bill 327, to eliminate plates for NEW YORK - Forbes maga- most of the 10 groups that won them zine released its annual ranking of poised to pass this year, including the Indiana Youth the world’s billionaires on Wednesday. INDIANAPOLIS - Indiana Group for gay youths, the Indianapolis Here are the four Hoosiers who made colleges will soon have to limit the Zoo and the Tony Stewart Foundation. the list: Gayle Cook: Widow of William number of credits needed to earn a Although the youth group plate had Cook, founder of Bloomington medical degree. The Indiana House of Rep- sparked controversy, Soliday said his device company Cook Group, No. 330, resentative has approved the plan to goal was to stop the proliferation of with a net worth of $3.4 billion. Herb limit the college credits needed for specialty plates, which now number Simon: Indiana Pacers owner and graduation to 120. Universities will more than 100, and to force a public shopping mall magnate, tied at No. have to ask the state Commission accounting of how the groups spend 719, with a net worth of $1.8 billion. on Higher Education for permission the money raised from the plate sales. Dean White: Hotel mogul, tied at No. to require more. WIBC-FM reported 719, with a net worth of $1.8 billion. Monday that the House voted 62-21 Jim Irsay: Owner of the Indianapolis to approve the measure. Gov. Mitch Daniels wants 31 Colts, No. 913, with a net worth of Daniels included the measure as part closure for revamp $1.4 billion. of his final legislative agenda saying that he was concerned that college CARMEL - As the state pre- degrees were becoming too expensive. pares to work on the final stretches of Feds pull plug on Opponents of the measure, including the massive $1.1 billion Indianapolis- the state’s public universities, won a to-South Bend upgrade of U.S. 31 this Carbon Motors key concession from lawmakers. The spring, concentrating on Carmel and CONNERSVILLE - Carbon Mo- altered proposal allows them to breach Westfield areas, Gov. Mitch Daniels tors of Connersville will not be receiv- the 120-credit limit for programs that thinks he can get the work done faster ing federal help (WIBC). The company require the extra credits for national and cheaper (Indianapolis Star). Dan- had planned to hire more than 1,500 accreditation. iels wants to use some creative financ- people in Fayette County but they an- ing to save an estimated $50 million nounced Wednesday they will not get and strategic road closures to acceler- a loan from the Department of Energy GOP revives ate the project in Hamilton County, to proceed. The company had ap- specialty plate bill with completion in three years. For plied for a $310 million loan under the motorists, that means potentially clos- Advanced Technology Vehicle Manu- INDIANAPOLIS - With the ing all four lanes of the highway in facturing Program. Carbon Motors had legislative session scheduled to end Carmel from the Monon Trail south to planned since 2009 to build high-tech Friday, Republicans are scrambling at least 116th Street. “This is the right police cars in Fayette County. Gover- to revive a bill targeting specialty way to do it,” said Carmel Mayor Jim nor Mitch Daniels reacted by saying, license plates -- an issue that had Brainard, who endorsed the idea. “The “We’re deeply disappointed for the been declared dead only days ago. state is going to save tens of millions people of Connersville and those who The attempt to resurrect the bill has of dollars this way. It’s just so much tried to bring this promising busi- Democrats charging that this is an cheaper to build when you don’t have v ness here. It would have been far improper end-run about legislative to maintain traffic.”