The Howey Political Report Is Published by Newslink Vice President (Dan Quayle), Two Leading Statesmen (Sen

Thursday April 24, 2003 Volume 9, Number 32 Page 1 of 8 he The Jurassic Age T of Indiana politics Howey ‘Weak sisters’ governing a lost state By BRIAN A. HOWEY in Indianapolis Back in the mid-1990s, as Mike Pence was building his radio empire with the catch-phrase “conservative, but in Political a good mood about it,” I was developing HPR, a statewide newspaper column and a news magazine. I countered Pence with the phrase, “The golden age of Report Indiana politics.” It was coined because we had just had an American The Howey Political Report is published by NewsLink Vice President (Dan Quayle), two leading statesmen (Sen. Inc. Founded in 1994, The Howey Political Report is Dick Lugar and Rep. Lee Hamilton), some rising stars in an independent, non-partisan newsletter analyzing the political process in Indiana. Congress (Reps. Ed Pease, David McIntosh, Steve Buyer and Tim Roemer), and a national party chairman (Joe Brian A. Howey, publisher Andrew). Indiana boasted several potential presidential can- Mark Schoeff Jr., Washington writer didates (Lugar, Evan Bayh, Stephen Goldsmith, Quayle). Jack E. Howey, editor Paul Helmke was president of the U.S. Conference of Mayors. We were inclusive with officeholders such as The Howey Political Report Office: 317-254-1533 PO Box 40265 Fax: 317-968-0487 Attorney General Pamela Carter. There were two competi- Indianapolis, IN 46240-0265 Mobile: 317-506-0883 tive political parties with annual battles for control of the [email protected] legislature. There were a couple of political think tanks, the www.howeypolitics.com Indiana Policy Review and the Sycamore Institute, along with nationally-recognized Hudson Institute. Washington office: 202-775-3242; Business Office: 317-254-0535. Today, at this writing, I must recant the “golden age of Indiana politics.” Fears expressed in my Dec. 20, 2000, Subscriptions: $250 annually via e-mail or essay, “Political Vistas at the End of the 20th Century,” fax; $450 annually including the HPR Daily have, unfortunately, come true. Wire. Call 317-254-1533 or 254-0535. State Sen. Robert Meeks, who chairs the Senate © 2003, The Howey Political Report. All rights Budget Committee, tolled the death knell of what had been a reserved. Photocopying, Internet forwarding, faxing or prosperous, energetic era. “The legislature, we’re a bunch of reproducing in any form, in whole or in part, is a viola- weak sisters,” Meeks, the LaGrange Republican, said. “We tion of federal law and is strictly prohibited without talk a good game, but we’re weak. We’re not willing to do consent of the publisher.

“The legislature, we’re weak sisters. We talk a Ticker: Consumer confidence up p. 2 good game, but we’re weak. We’re not willing Bayh and Lugar: Iraq commitment p. 3 what we need to do.” Horse Race04: Andrew a lobbyist? p.6 Horse Race03: Richard leads in $$ p.7 - State Sen. Robert Meeks, to the Indianapolis Columnists: Shella, Howey p. 8 Star Thursday April 24, 2003 Page 2 of 8

what we need to do.” Monday and Tuesday.... Under Meeks’ stewardship, Indiana Earlier this week, school boards is about to pass a budget that is out of bal- convened across the Hoosier state. In ance; that flat-lines Medicaid as the num- what has become an early week ritual, ber of elderly citizens are on the rise; and local communities heard the sour news. eaks out tiny education increases at a time Monroe County Schools cutting 28 LYTLE WILL RETURN; of tougher new standards. The legislature teachers; Shenandoah Schools announcing GIAQUINTA STILL IN is intent on sticking it to Gov. Frank DOUBT: Two Democrats, a dozen teacher cuts; Highland Schools, Reps. Markt Lytle of O’Bannon, a man with no friends in the two cuts; Muncie eliminates three admin- Madison and Ben GiaQuinta General Assembly. istrators. of Fort Wayne, recently At Shenandoah, the Muncie Star missed session days Wonder went out of Indiana Press reported that “350 people left the because of illness. Lytle, In my “Political Vistas” essay, I Shenandoah school board meeting shaking who was released from quoted John Bartlow Martin in his 1947 their heads and wondering what next will King's Daughters' Hospital book, “Indiana: An Interpretation.” happen to their schools.” in Madison yesterday after a It took the Terre Haute Tribune- bout with a digestive disor- “Somwhere, somehow between the Star’s Sue Loughlin to report on Tuesday der, said he planned to beginning of one world war and the end return to Indianapolis today of another, the wonder went out of all the that statewide, 193 school districts report and might be available to wonderful things of Indiana’s past -- the that for the next school year, they will cut vote if necessary (Leslie magic of McCutcheon’s Indian summer the equivalent of 926 full-time teachers, 76 administrators and 650 support staff. Stedman, Louisville Courier- cartoon and Riley’s poems, the boundless Journal). But the return of That's on top of a reduction of 1,200 full- promise of natural gas and Elwood GiaQuinta, who suffered a time staff for this year: 547 teachers, 70 Haynes’ wonderful machine,” Martin mild heart attack more than administrators and 586 support staff. wrote. “A suspicion had arisen that big- a week ago, is less certain, But this isn’t just another ISTA vs. otry, ignorance, and hysteria were as leaving Democrats with no Chamber battle. Despite the warnings of choice but to work with much a part of the Hoosier character as education cuts from the Kevin Brinegars, Republicans on a deal for were conservatism and steadfastness and David Goodriches and Randall Tobiases which they can provide at common sense. One of Indiana’s chief of the Hoosier world, the axe is falling. least one or two votes. exports had long been ideas, but so many That's one reason Bosma “We all knew cuts were coming. We've of these had turned out to be wrong-head- was cautiously optimistic known that all year,” said Linda yesterday that his caucus ed, wicked or useless. Indiana lost its Richardson of the Monroe County would play a key role in friendly tolerance, its conviction that Education Association. “The situation was crafting the final package of things would work out, and it by no pretty evident. It rests on the shoulders of economic development ini- means fulfilled its magnificent promise.” the state legislature." tiatives they have in I asked in 2000 and will ask again, Said Shenandoah school board exchange for votes on the Why did this happen? member Scott Trennepohl, “The problem budget. Martin observed: “Many plain peo- isn't with this board, it's in Indianapolis." ple in Indiana blame the politicians most MEEKS BELIEVES BUDGET With 2,000 teachers rallying at the IS CLOSER: Budget nego- of all for stunting Indiana’s growth. Statehouse Tuesday, it prompted State tiators said Wednesday they Today, Indiana is full of people who never Rep. Chet Dobis to say: “I think educa- are much closer to a com- see the economic or social ends of politics tion is a priority for most of the 150 mem- promise and still think they but are fascinated merely buy the day-to- bers. The pot is the same -- where we dif- may get their work done day business of vote getting, buttonholing, fer is how we divide it.” this week (Jennifer Whitson, horse trading, drink buying -- all the little State government, from the Evansville Courier & Press). trickeries that made president and ward Governor’s Education Roundtable, to the "We hope to get this done, heelers alike. To win a public office is the legislature, had toughened academic stan- absolutely this week," said House Speaker B. Patrick same as to make a touchdown or to hit a dards at the demand of business and home run, and as devoid of meaning.” industry, and are now in the process of Continued on page 3 pulling the rug out from schools. It’s cre- Page 3 of 8 Thursday April 24, 2003 ating what has been a Republican anathe- woes -- Medicaid, bad schools, sewers ma: Unfunded mandates. And it flies in overflowing into rivers -- on a national the face of the party’s generational patron, recession. The flaw there is that if President Ronald Reagan, who asked Indiana’s economy had been restructured Americans in 1982 to “stay the course.” five or six years ago when Gov. Weak sisters do not stay the course. O’Bannon had ample political capital to In fact, Meeks began the week not do so, we would have weathered this Bauer, D-South Bend. only with what will be a legendary quote, recession much better. "We're still hopeful for but by broadsiding new Ways and Means Thursday, but a week con- Chairman Bill Crawford, the man presid- The Jurassic Age ... sists of Friday and ing over budget conferees by suggesting Saturday." Sen. Robert Today, April 24, 2003, may it be Meeks, R-LaGrange, also in a Fort Wayne Journal Gazette article officially proclaimed that we are living in sounded upbeat. "We're that the new chairman was on a learning the Jurassic Age of Indiana politics. closer," Meeks said. "A lot curve. Our best brains and talents have closer." Legislative leaders Ranking Ways and Means receded on the national presidential scene. talked until about 11:30 p.m. Republican Jeff Espich added, “The new I count only two out of 150 in the legisla- Tuesday and said they chairman hasn't even sat in the room ture who could be called “governor” made progress. "I'm really pleased with the way things before. Maybe he doesn't fully compre- (Sens. Murray Clark and Vi Simpson). hend what it takes to get this done.” went," Meeks said. The The state’s big city mayors face an array main shifts appear to be on of overwhelming needs but have hand- funding for schools and Compassionate conservatives cuffed themselves on the 1980’s style “no higher education. While Espich, despite his role in one of new taxes” sentiments. House Democratic leaders the most progressive postures in the legis- We are led by the generation inca- did not outline the details of lature this year, the House Republican pable of doing what it takes to lead. The the negotiations, Meeks did Economic plan, took HPR to task for a Indianapolis Star editorial writers have detail some of the offers made by Senate Republi- recent column on how flat-lining Medi- noted a “black hole has developed in the cans. Meeks said they caid didn’t jibe with the GOP’s search for rotunda” and it is “sucking in vision, fore- agreed to restore the school its “compassionate conservatism.” sight and most of all, leadership.” funding cuts Gov. Frank “How could you possibly have not In this, the Jurassic Age of Indiana O'Bannon made last year noticed that this proposal first was a part politics, we find columnist Morton while trying to balance the of the House Democrat budget and then Marcus’s fairy, Faye, emerging from the budget. Meeks said his cau- wrote that?. Instead you sought to blame forest. “There is no leadership for higher cus also offered to guaran- this supposed wrong on the GOP,” Espich taxes to support the programs that tee that no school would said. “Good or bad, all have embraced this everyone agrees we need for economic see a funding cut and to allow schools to transfer path in order to prioritize education fund- development statewide.” Faye says. some money from their ing.” “There is no leadership for cleaning up building fund to cover oper- Espich added, “If we are going to our environment, for rebuilding sewers, ating costs. "I don't see how work smarter and do a better job of con- for better transit systems. Those goals do I can go any further," Meeks trolling the cost of medicaid growth, then not appeal to powerful existing forces." said. Meeks also said the we are going to need the help and exper- Marcus asks, “You think leaders sides are "pretty much in tise of the O'Bannon administration. He could lead in new directions in Indiana? agreement on the dollars" has not tried to be helpful.” “Sure,” Faye says, “but don't bet for Medicaid and prisons. Meeks attributes the It was further propagation of on a messianic candidate now in D.C. to progress to Bauer's involve- take Indiana in a new direction. Anyone Meeks’ “weak sisters” argument that flies ment (Niki Kelly, Fort Wayne in the face of the legislature, particularly with overwhelming support from existing Journal Gazette). Flat-lining Senate Republicans, who forged the his- political powers is not going to do any- Medicaid financing while toric tax restructuring in June 2002. thing really valuable for the state.” also giving the Office of Meanwhile the staff of Gov. Frank And so saying, Faye fades into the Medicaid Policy and O’Bannon was blaming the gathering forest. continued on page 4 Thursday April 24, 2003 Page 4 of 8 It’s still a dark and scary world out there -By BRIAN A. HOWEY Sunday and was asked about the length of INDIANAPOLIS -- Hoosiers were stay for the U.S. military in Iraq. “I would confronted with a number of conflicting expect that this would be an evolutionary images from around the world. process, where we'll have to maintain a Planning some flexibility in Iraqis took to the streets by the tens significant presence here early on until finding program savings of thousands, using chains and swords to things truly get settled down,” Bayh said. and no money to open new bloody their heads and backs, and “There's some momentum toward a civil prison beds are a part of the “Americans go home” cries erupted. society in Iraq. But we're going to have to compromise. Bauer was the Defense Secretary Donald be there for a while -- not permanently, longtime House fiscal leader Rumsfeld suggested weapons of mass but for a while -- because we don't want and has experience negoti- ating budgets. "The speaker destruction may never be found. The to win the war and then lose the peace.” has been a lot more active Washington Post reported on Wednesday It’s that “losing the peace” option in the last few days," Meeks that “after 30 days, the Bush administra- that sends that brief shiver down the said. "It is refreshing to tion is losing confidence in its pre-war spines of Republicans. Matthew Dowd, a negotiate with him. When belief that it had strong clues pointing to Republican strategist, is telling Bush sup- the speaker got involved the whereabouts of weapons of mass porters to “expect the current high first-hand, it just made it destruction concealed in Iraq.” approval ratings to come down” to a more easier. We made tremen- More troubling, the Post reported, traditional level (CNN). dous strides yesterday and “Analysts said they believe that former The $200 million Bush re-election today. There has been give and take from both sides of Iraqi officials hope to conceal their culpa- effort is expected to kick off with the lat- the aisle and both cham- bility, barter for status with the U.S. mili- est Republican National Convention in bers." tary government or sell the technology for history -- Aug. 30 to Sept. 2, 2004 in New private gain. The war may prove to aggra- York City -- which would poise Bush to SIMPSON NOTES LACK OF vate the proliferation threat that President take advantage of the coming Sept. 11 CONTENTION: ''It's not as Bush said he fought to forestall.” anniversary observations. The Times contentious as it's been in And both Indiana Sens. Dick reported, “The back-to-back events would past years. Everybody is Lugar and Evan Bayh had sobering obser- complete the framework for a general contributing,'' said Sen. Vi vations. Lugar noted on NBC’s Meet the election campaign that is being built Simpson, the budget nego- around national security and Mr. Bush's tiator for Senate Democrats Press that while the military execution (Leslie Stedman, Louisville was “brilliant,” the nation building role in combatting terrorism.” And they Courier-Journal). ''There is process “started very late.” There is no hope to deprive the Democratic nominee just . . . more of a spirit that estimate of cost or time, though Lugar of critical news coverage during the open- we all have to work together said he believes it will take five years. ing weeks of the general election cam- to get the job done.'' But More dicey is the thought of a theocracy paign.” Simpson warned that much taking root and governing Iraq. Asked if As for those all-important Bush work remains. ''We've got a he could accept that, Lugar responded, “I coattails, it’s almost absurd to try to calcu- lot of details to work out,'' just think we cannot.” And, he said, “The late those now, though many observers she said. ''We're working believe if Karl Rove plays Bush’s cards hard on K-12 (public school) thought of going to elections prematurely and higher education fund- is disastrous.” right -- and he has a history of doing so-- ing to get them off the table. As for Syria, Iran and North Korea, 2004 is a scenario of landslide potential. Then there's a lot left to Lugar said that while the “United States is Stuart Rothenberg observed, “With do.'' Republicans and never going to rule out the military the current House makeup standing at Democrats in both cham- option,” he talked about “extraordinary 229-206, the Democrats need a net gain of bers have also agreed that opportunities” if the U.S. “radiates its a dozen seats to get to 218 and control the economic development is a influence. We have extraordinary potential body. That size gain is possible only if a priority, said House to change the governance of Syria and partisan Democratic wave develops next Republican Leader Brian likewise to bring about peace with year, which ought not be ruled out. Bosma. ''That was not the case three months ago,'' he Palestine and Israel.” Without it, the Republicans are likely to Bayh appeared on Fox News retain the majority.” continued on page 5 Page 5 of 8 Thursday April 24, 2003 Pastrick floats consolidation in the Region The pronouncement from one of that this area welcomes.” the most enduring Hoosier warhorses, Highland Clerk-Treasurer Michael East Chicago Mayor Robert Pastrick, was Griffin said he is skeptical of institutional surprising. consolidation such as unigov (Carmen said. ''That makes me a bit “I believe strongly in consolida- McCollom, Times of Northwest Indiana). more optimistic.'' tion,” Pastrick said during a candidate “I share the objective of better govern- endorsement interview with members of ment and smarter government, and I share CONTROVERSY SUR- the Times of Northwest Indiana editorial the view of reinventing government,” he ROUNDS CHARTER board. “I know that sounds odd, running said. “I favor consolidation of effort, con- SCHOOLS: Tempers flared for mayor of one city.” solidation of function, and that may be Wednesday as legislators It’s an old idea, as old as Unigov, institutional and it may not be.” tried to work out a compromise that would allow char- but it takes on new angles with talk in Whiting Councilman Steve Spebar ter schools to continue Indiana about a constitutional convention said he doesn't think Pastrick's idea would growing while protecting as a way of restructuring an antiquated benefit Whiting. "If the matter is the financial interests of Indiana government. researched or pursued so be it, but as a conventional public schools Pastrick talked about uniting representative of the citizens of Whiting, I (Niki Kelly, Fort Wayne East Chicago, Hammond, Whiting, really don't think it's feasible or in our Journal Gazette). Sen. Highland and Munster into “Metrolake, best interests," he said. Teresa Lubbers, R- Indiana,” which would supplant Fort Hammond Mayor Duane Dedelow Indianapolis, shifted sub- Wayne as Indiana’s second largest city. said, “I agree with cooperative efforts and stantially from her original “The five communities would make a saving money. I don't believe we are bill in a deal offered Wednesday. But House larger city with a lot of clout and would ready to take that quantum leap that Democrats, who want to cap make for a whole community,” Pastrick Mayor Pastrick has suggested. I believe the number of charter said. we need to take smaller bites out of the schools, were not enthusi- The response was predictable. apple and work in that direction and see astic about the compromise. Munster Councilwoman Helen Brown told how things work for everyone's benefit.” "I think the proposal is rea- the Post-Tribune, “Change isn’t something sonable, and it is not accu- rate to say this allows a proliferation of charter schools," Lubbers said. Indiana 2004Gubernatorial "This is a bitter, bitter pill Governor 2004: Republican: David McIntosh, Sen. Murray Clark, Sen. Luke Kenley, for most of us charter Mitch Daniels, Eric Miller, Petersburg Mayor Randy Harris. Democrat: Joe Andrew, State Sen. school supporters. This is Vi Simpson. 1996 Results: O’Bannon (D) 1,075,342, Goldsmith (R) 997,505, Dillon (L) my best shot." Senate Bill 35,261. 2000 Results: O’Bannon (D) 1,230,345, 501 aims to resolve the McIntosh (R) 906,492, Horning (L) 38,686. 2004 problem by including char- Forecast: Andrew protested Bill Moreau’s deci- ter schools in the state's sion to call him a “lobbyist.” Andrew told HPR basic school financing for- that throughout his entire career he has lobbied for mula instead of taking only three entities, and they were charities or not-for-profits. Daniels bashed France and other money away from urban European countries for their "willful self-denial of new technologies" in a speech Thursday night districts. Lubbers suggest- at the 10th anniversary of the Progress and Freedom Foundation, a Washington technology think ed each child would be paid tank (Insight Magazine). Speaking of the European Union's rejection of genetically modified for at the per- pupil average grains, he cracked, "We created underarm deodorant, and the French turned that down too." To of the district where the howls of laughter from the audience at Washingon's Renaissance Mayflower Hotel, Daniels charter school is located,In added that an American entrepreneur can dream up a new business, start it up, have it fail, and the poll I instead of the then start over in a shorter time “than it takes to get a [business] license in most European coun- statewide average or average of the district where the tries.” Status: TOSSUP. child lives. The House

continued on page 6 Thursday April 24, 2003 Page 6 of 8 2003, 2004 Racing Form Anderson Mayoral: Republican: Kevin Smith, John Blevins. Democrat: Robert W. Rock, Anderson Twp. Assessor Dorothy Manis, Irma Hampton Stewart. Independent: Linda Haynes. 1995 Results: Lawler (D) 9,411, Graham (R) 8,817. 1999 Results: Lawler (D) 8,395, Democrats prefer an overall Czarniecki (R) 7,002 Haynes (I) 1,950. 2003 Forecast: Rock reported raising $46,341 on top of cap of 25 charter schools the $7,840 he began the year with (Anderson Herald-Bulletin). Manis reported raising $14,921 statewide - including the and Stewart reported $1,905. On the GOP side, Blevins raised $23,278, compared to $18,098 for existing 11. Smith. Primar Status: LIKELY ROCK; LIKELY BLEVINS. Carmel Mayoral: Republican: Mayor James Brainard, Council President Luci CONSUMER CONFIDENCE Snyder, Councilman Wayne Wilson. 2003 Outlook: The Carmel City Council voted unani- ON THE RISE: An ABC mously Monday night to waive the city's attorney-client privilege with Indianapolis law firm Ice News/Money magazine poll Miller (Indianapolis Star). The Indiana Supreme Court Disciplinary Commission, which investi- of 1,004 adults in the month gates complaints of attorney misconduct, sought the waiver in its investigation of a complaint ending April 20 (+/- 3%), against Mayor Jim Brainard, a licensed attorney. 575 shows: The ABC The complaint, filed in July by Councilman John News/Money magazine Koven, a frequent critic of Brainard's, claims the Consumer Comfort Index mayor asked Ice Miller attorney Thomas K. "has gained 13 points, "Buddy" Downs to overcharge the city $5,000 892 jumping from -28 to -15 on for a bond issue and then funnel that money to Brainard's campaign. Downs has refused to speak its scale of +100 to -100. to the commission, citing the attorney-client privilege. "The complaint of Mr. Koven is untrue, Though much improved, inaccurate, and alleges a conversation that did not occur," Brainard said in the letter. Primary and its best since Sept. 29, Status: TOSSUP. that's still below its average Crown Point Mayoral: Republican: Councilman Pam Roth, Gayle Van Sessen, in this 17-year-old survey, - Dan Klein. Democrat: Bill Wirtz, Wayne Isailovich. 1999 Results: Metros (D) 3,005, Kemp 9." In the poll, 30% rated the (R) 2,671. 2003 Outlook: Roth criticized Van Sessen, the local Chamber executive director, for national economy as excel- never holding elective office. “At this time in our city’s history, we do not have the luxury of lent or good; 70% rated it as waiting through a learning curve of a mayor who has never served in city government,” Roth not good or poor. 60% rated said (Times of Northwest Indiana). Van Sessen fired back, saying that “12 years ago we had $1 their personal finances as million in debt. Right now we have $22 million in debt. And what do we have to show for it? excellent or good; 40% Farm land and fire hydrants.” Primary Status: TOSSUP. rated them as not good or East Chicago Mayoral: Republican: None. Democrat: Mayor Robert Pastrick, poor. 37% said now was an Councilman George Pabey, Judge Lonnie Randolph. 1999 Primary Results: Pastrick 5,772, excellent or a good time to Stephen Stiglich 3,790. 1999 General Results: Pastrick (D) 3,027, Acost (R) 629. 2003 buy the things they want Forecast: Six candidates in the May primary in East Chicago, including mayoral challenger and need; 63% said it was George Pabey, are alleging widespread vote fraud in the city (Michael Puente, Post-Tribune) and not a good time or a poor a hearing is set for Friday. They want a judge to impound more than 1,600 absentee ballot appli- 178 time. cations that have been received so far by county election officials. The allegations and the 174 request for a preliminary injunction were filed Monday in a lawsuit in Lake Superior Court. The INDIANA’S TOP FBI AGENT lawsuit attempts to strike at the heart of the city’s Democratic machine headed by Mayor Robert APOLOGIZES TO ALBASTI: Pastrick by listing allegations of pressure tactics used to force city employees and their families The head of the FBI in to vote for him to keep their jobs. “All we want is a fair and honest election. That’s all we 07 Indiana publicly apologized want,” Pabey said Monday. General Status: Solid Pastrick. Wednesday for the deten- Gary Mayoral: Republican: Rev. Carl Dix. Democrat: Mayor Scott King, Karen tion of eight Egyptian men Freeman-Wilson, Dozier Allen, Roosevelt Allen, Douglas Grimes. 1995 Results: 1995 Results: from Evansville, who were King (D) 23,588, Williams (I) 5,482, Boswell (R) 1,108, McCraney (I) 96. 1999 Results: King held as part of a terrorism (D) 11,467. 2003 Forecast: King says he considered Freeman-Wilson a friend and doesn’t say investigation just weeks much bad about her. Freeman-Wilson insists they were never friends and has little good to say after the Sept. 11, 2001, about him. City records show their relationship at the very least included a trust that led to thou- attacks (Evansville Courier sands of dollars going from King’s control to Freeman-Wilson’s pockets, even as recently last & Press). Saying the secre- year. King admits he hired her husband Carmen Wilson to head the Gary Sanitary District in tive detentions came at a 2000 mostly as a favor to Freeman-Wilson. He said he gave her and her law firm city contracts time of unprecedented fear because of his respect for her work and his relationship with her. But Freeman-Wilson says her Page 7 of 8 Thursday April 24, 2003 relationship with King was never one she considered close. And though they were political allies, talk that King did her any favors are lies, she said. “The mayor has always tried to be supportive of my endeavors outside the city,” she said, “because he knew that I was in the best position to beat him.” The Rev. Raymond Carl Dix Jr. owes more than $18,000 in support payments to three children. General Status: Solid King. Fort Wayne Mayoral: Republican: Linda Buskirk, O. (Bro) Blye. Democrat: Mayor Graham Richard. 1995 Results: Helmke 21,909, Essex (D) 11,033, Kempf (L) 1,029. 1999 Results: Richard (D) 21,607, Buskirk (R) 21,531. 2003 Forecast: Richard leads the in the nation, FBI Special money race by more than 3-to-1 over Buskirk (Fort Wayne Journal Gazette). Each raised Agent Thomas V. Fuentes about $112,000 between Jan. 1 and Monday, when state-required campaign finance reports acknowledged that the were due, and both spent similar amounts. But the $211,837 war chest Richard started with detentions caused the men leaves him on the cusp of the Democratic primary with $281,845 in the bank, while and their families distress Republican Buskirk has only $91,410. Richard officially began his campaign for re-election on and humiliation long after Monday with about 50 supporters - many of them city employees and union members. "We're the government cleared them so close to accomplishing these very important initiatives," Richard said. "But it will take eight of suspicion. "The situation years to do the things we've begun to do." General Status: Tossup. that happened to you was Hammond Mayoral: Republican: Mayor Duane Dedelow. Democrat: Tom horrible," Fuentes told for- McDermott Jr.. 1995 Results: Dedelow (R) 11,099, Philpot (D) 10,578. 1999 Results: mer detainee Tarek Albasti Dedelow (R) 10,192, Philpot (D) 8,527, Robinson (L) 278. 2003 Outlook: Mayor Dedelow during an evening meeting at has yet to return $14 million to city coffers despite a court order saying he had no right to the Islamic Center of negotiate a contract with Horseshoe Casino then spend the money without the City Council's Evansville. "On behalf of the approval (Times of Northwest Indiana). As a result, the council is pursuing several legal FBI, I will apologize." avenues to ensure Dedelow complies with the spirit of the ruling, handed down March 19 by a unanimous seven-judge panel of Lake Superior Court. Dedelow has said he will appeal the VANDERBURGH COUNTY verdict. Council Attorney Robert Berger filed a motion April 10 asking the court to enforce its EYES TAX HIKE FOR JAIL: judgment through an injunction. Specifically, the council wants the court to restrain Dedelow Vanderburgh County Council and the Hammond Development Corp., which received $8.7 million. General Status: Tossup. leaders say the possibility of Indianapolis Mayoral: Republican: Treasurer Greg Jordan. Democrat: Mayor tax increases can't be ruled out in the construction of a Bart Peterson, Karen Sue Beck. Libertarian: Open. 1995 Results: Goldsmith (R) 64,209, $35 million jail, but they're Jimison (D) 39,539, Dillon (L) 7,175. 1999 Results: Peterson (D) 102,870, Gilroy (R) 83,044, hopeful the project can be Horning (L) 7,772, Gibson (OP) 2,145. 2003 Forecast: As the city's police union continues to funded with existing taxes criticize Mayor Bart Peterson over stalled contract talks, five officers are vying for seats on the (Evansville Courier & Press). very City-County Council that determines whether his proposals live or die. "The fact we don't County officials, citing the have a contract plays into it," said Sgt. Bruce Henry Sr., a 16-year veteran of the Indianapolis sluggish economy and Police Department (Indianapolis Star). He also is on the Fraternal Order of Police bargaining increasing demands on local team. "The officers are at their wits' end . . . that negotiations are stalled." General Status: governments, have openly Likely Peterson. expressed concern in recent Republican: Open. Democrat: Mayor Doug Olson, Joe Portage Mayoral: weeks about how they will Blackwell. 2003 Forecast: Olsen raised $44,309 and Blackwell reported $2,063. General sta- make the projected $2.7 mil- tus: LEANS OLSON. lion in annual debt service Terre Haute Mayoral: Republican: Duke Bennett. Democrat: Mayor Judy payments on the new jail. Anderson, Jim Jenkins, Kevin Burke. 1999 Results: Anderson (D) 6,791, Hooper (R) 2,608, Cronk (I) 1,178 Brour (I) 174. 2003 Forecast: Two radio ads paid for by the committee to re- CONGRESSIONAL CAM- elect Mayor Judy Anderson that began airing Wednesday feature attacks on the honesty of one PAIGN FUNDS REPORTED: of her opponents, Kevin Burke (Pete Ciancone, Terre Haute Tribune-Star). The ads state that U.S. Rep. Mark Souder, R- Burke has three warrants for unpaid taxes. "To be mayor, you have to be number one, honest, 3rd, has launched his fifth and number two, fiscally responsible," Anderson said Thursday. She said the warrants, on file re-election campaign in his in the Vigo County Clerk's office, total a relatively small amount, but the amount didn't matter. typical bare-bones style that "If you steal a piece of candy, it’s still stealing.” Primary Status: LEANS ANDERSON. reflects his distaste for ask- Valparaiso Mayoral: Republican: Jon Costas. Democrat: Mayor David ing supporters for more Butterfield. 1999 Results: Butterfield (D) 3,532, Costas (R) 3,336. 2003 Forecast: Costas money than his campaign raised $12,935, compared to $2,882 for Mayor Butterfield. General status: TOSSUP. will need and months before the cash is required (Sylvia

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Jim Shella, WishTV.com - "Where's voted 79-12 to send the bill to Gov. Frank Frank?" The question came from a O'Bannon for approval, Public Health Smith, Fort Wayne Journal Committee Chairman Charlie Brown was Gazette). Souder posted Republican state senator as we shared an $17,343 cash on hand as of elevator. Its not an innocent question, of quick to remind him. "I want all the peo- March 31 for the two-year course. Republicans want reporters, their ple of Orange County, all the people in fund-raising cycle that constituents, the public in general, to TV land, to know, Jerry Denbo is going to began the day after last believe that Frank O'Bannon is missing in give up smoking," said Brown during November's election.

He action. He's not. As the 2003 session debate on the bill. A euphoric Denbo said is one of only a handful of draws to a close the governor is engaged he'll try. "I don't have any choice now House incumbents with in the legislative process much the same anyway. I can't go home now and smoke." such a small balance. Only one other Hoosier - Rep. as he has been in previous years. He con- John Hostettler, R-8th, - has ducts interviews, holds a weekly availabil- Brian A. Howey, Indianapolis Eye - a smaller nest egg. ity with the Statehouse press corps as well The fact of the matter is that our politi- Hostettler has $10,096 on as teleconferences with out state media, cians are wedded to a 15-year-old mantra hand. By contrast, Rep. Dan and he meets with legislative leaders on a of "no new taxes" that flies in the face of Burton, R-5th, has $907,003 regular basis. Several members of his a gathering storm of social predicaments in the bank, making his the staff can frequently be found in and that beg for more money. No new taxes; 38th richest campaign around the legislative chambers working among the nearly 800 cur- no new judges; no new jail cells. The rent and former candidates with lawmakers. If any legislator wants to price to be paid is a handful of homicides, who filed first-quarter know what the governor is thinking on a a dozen or so armed robberies, dozens of reports with the Federal given issue, it's not hard to find out. But larcenies, burglaries, assaults, along with Election Commission. "I there is a difference. Compare this year to some indecent exposures for good mea- don't believe in stockpiling," previous years and you will find that the sure. The problems are now coming home Souder said. "Until I have a governor is making fewer appearances to roost. In the next several months, real opponent that's a real outside the Statehouse. When Frank Indianapolis and other cities will be threat, I won't raise a lot of O'Bannon was pushing full day kinder- required by Indiana law to inform the pub- money. My goal is to spend garten during his first term, he was mak- the least amount possible in lic every time it dumps more fecal matter any election." Other Indiana ing appearances at schools, and in cities, (as well as condoms and panty liners) into House incumbents and their from Gary to Evansville. The idea then our rivers. Later this week, the Marion cash-on-hand balances are was: Convince the public, lawmakers will County justice system is expected to begin Rep. Pete Visclosky, D-1st, follow. There is none of that now. Why? unloading inmates out into the general $429,693; Rep. Chris First, there is no money, so there are no population. Some of the folks in that pop- Chocola, R-2nd, $204,456; new programs to pitch. Secondly, Frank ulation will actually vote in the November Rep. Julia Carson, D-7th, O'Bannon's approval rating is not what it elections. Here’s the political nightmare, $40,250; Rep. Mike Pence, could be, somewhere in the 40s. Private R-6th, $60,752; Rep. Baron perhaps on par with Stephen Goldsmith’s Hill, D-9th, $42,154; and polling has shown it lower. Knowing that, rioting cops back in 1996 on Meridian Rep. Steve Buyer, R-4th, efforts to rally the public might actually Street: An early released inmate murders a $32,313. backfire. And so, the governor is keeping couple of people; maybe even some inno- a lower public profile. cents and not just another drug dealer. Mayor Peterson and his opponent, Leslie Stedman, Louisville Courier- Republican county Treasurer Greg Jordan, Journal - After more than a decade of will then be forced to explain which is work, Rep. Jerry Denbo was so desperate more important, "keeping people safe" or this year to pass a bill authorizing a casino fending off those pesky tax increases that for his home Orange County that he could have allowed for the government to promised to quit smoking if the legislation adequately perform its most vital mission. became law. Last week, as the House