V17, N23 Monday, Feb. 13, 2012 Dem exodus puts Bauer in crosshairs HPI Analysis reveals strong likelihood of GOP Super Majority, poised to win most of 11 open seats; Bauer will be challenged By BRIAN A. HOWEY GREENCASTLE, Ind. - The magnitude of seismic Republican Statehouse gains that have Indiana Democrats careening from disaster to catastrophe came into clearer focus on Friday when 12 House Democrats with a combined tenure of 236 years did not Retiring Democrat Reps. Bill Crawford (left) and John Day (right) at the Marion County file for reelection. Democratic slating on Saturday, with former Rep. John Barnes, who was defeated in the The looming retirements make disastrous 2010 election cycle. Barnes opted to run for the this cycle. the Republican super majority of 67 seats - needing a pickup of seven - a races shows that of the 10 open seats due to redistrict- distinct probability. Add in the GOP ing, Republicans are in the driver’s seat in just about all of retirements and the House will be them. A 70-seat majority is not beyond the scope. losing 340 years of experience, State Reps. , and an unprecedented departure of Craig Fry did not file for reelection by the noon deadline institutional tenure. An HPI analysis of House Continued on page 3 Why elect secretary of state?

By JACK COLWELL SOUTH BEND - Charlie White, now a convicted felon, got 976,810 votes to win big for Indiana secretary of state in 2010. ‘‘We draw from all walks of life. Of the nearly one million Hoosiers who voted for Charlie, how There’s political science and many knew anything about him other than party affiliation? political art. I embrace the art Not many. Maybe 5 per- cent. Maybe a little more. Maybe of politics.” not. And how many voters - Kristi Risk, 8th CD have any idea what the secretary of state does? Republican candidate Not many. Indiana’s HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 2 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Monday, Feb. 13, 2012

secretary isn’t exactly high profile like vacancy back in November of 2010, a Hillary Clinton, the U.S. secretary he never would have picked Charlie of state, who deals with every inter- White. While voters didn’t focus on national crisis. Never is there need White’s problems, Daniels would have for the Indiana official to seek sanc- picked someone more qualified. www.HoweyPolitics.com tions against Michigan for developing Now there is messy litigation nuclear weapons. over whether the governor can fill the Allegations about White us- vacancy or whether the second place Howey Politics ing a false address to vote, run for finisher, Osili, will become secretary of Indiana secretary of state and retain a Fishers state. is a non-partisan newsletter Town Council seat were raised publicly Now there are recriminations. based in Indianapolis. It was before the 2010 election. An angry White lashed out at Daniels, founded in 1994 in Fort Wayne. Voters, if they saw some who had been calling for his resigna- news item about it, ignored it as just tion, saying in a Fox News interview more political bickering and involving that the governor was guilty of vote Brian A. Howey, Publisher some guy for some office that didn’t fraud because of voter registration “at Mark Schoeff Jr., Washington much matter to them. the governor’s mansion, where every- Jack E. Howey, editor White won by over 300,000 body knows he does not live.” Beverly K. Phillips, associate votes, not because voters knew him, So there is more attention but because he was running on a state now on secretary of state than there editor Republican ticket breezing to victory ever was during that last campaign. as the political pendulum swung back The attention should result Subscriptions in a basically Republican state after in taking the office off the elective $350 annually HPI Weekly Barack Obama two years before had ballot. That would require an amend- carried Indiana. ment to the Indiana Constitution, and $550 annually HPI Weekly and Also, voters who actually chances of that are slim, to say the HPI Daily Wire. looked at the names instead of just least. 'Call 317.627.6746 the party affiliations saw a choice It would, however, make between the solid sounding name of sense. If a secretary of state is need- Charlie White and the strange sound- ed, the secretary should be appointed Contact HPI ing name of the Democratic nominee, by the governor in the way that a Howey Politics Indiana Vop Osili. president appoints the U.S. secretary 6255 Evanston Ave. A Hamilton County jury found of state to serve in the Cabinet. Indianapolis, IN 46220 the allegations were more than just Voters do focus on governor www.howeypolitics.com political bickering and found White and president and hold those execu- guilty on six felony charges involving tives responsible for the quality of [email protected] vote fraud, perjury and theft. He was their appointees. They won’t focus on 'Howey’s cell: 317.506.0883 accused of using his ex-wife’s address Vop vs. Charlie. 'Washington: 703.248.0909 in fraudulent voter registration to It could be that the office 'Business Office: 317.627.6746 meet residency requirements for his isn’t even needed. One candidate for $1,000-a-month Fishers Town Council secretary of state, Tim Jeffers, the salary. Democratic nominee in 1994, actu- © 2012, Howey Politics Indiana. Gov. Mitch Daniels has ally campaigned on a promise to seek All rights reserved. Photocopy- named an interim secretary of state, to abolish it. To prove the point, he ing, Internet forwarding, fax- and White will be out permanently un- showed a video of person-on-the- ing or reproducing in any form, less a judge at sentencing reduces the street interviews with 90 Hoosiers, whole or part, is a violation of felonies to misdemeanors. only four of whom had any idea what Too bad the governor couldn’t the secretary of state does. federal law without permission have appointed a secretary of state in One correctly responded that from the publisher. v the first place. the secretary is the keeper of the state The office should not be elec- seal. tive. Jeffers said the lieutenant If Daniels had been filling a governor probably could safely keep HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 3 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Monday, Feb. 13, 2012

the seal. He said securities regulations, corporate filings stepping stone for aspiring politicians. Charlie White slid off and election responsibilities of the office could be shifted to the stone. And he never should have been stepping there is existing departments, saving money for taxpayers. the first place. v The office has sometimes been used as a stepping stone for higher office. Colwell has covered Indiana politics over five de- But there is no reason for the state to provide a cades for the South Bend Tribune.

tactics helped create the 40-seat minority during the 2010 House Democrats, from page 1 election cycle. The biggest surprise Friday was with Dobis, who Friday, joining , Dan Stevenson, William Craw- was elected to the House in 1970. He was drawn into a dis- ford, John Day, , Dave Cheatham, , trict with State Rep. Vernon Smith, then purchased a home , and Dennis Tyler in the biggest House in Schererville. But when the filing dust settled, Republican exodus in modern Hoosier history. Democrats controlled Lake County Councilman Rick Niemeyer of Lowell had filed the redistricting in 1991 and 2001, and the exodus follow- and he emerges as a favorite for at least one GOP pickup. ing those revamps did not approach this level. Democrats filing include Lon Childress, Al Cottingham and In February 2002 after House Democrats drew the new maps, only three Republicans, then in a 53-47 minor- ity, retired: Reps. Dean Mock, Brent Steele (who ran for the Senate), and Mike Herndon. They were joined by four Democrats – Reps. Gary Cook (who ran for mayor of Plym- outh), Dick Bodiker, Mike Dvorak (who ran for St. Joseph County prosecutor) and Speaker John Gregg. Three current Democrats are in or seeking other offices: Reske in the 5th CD, Sullivan for the state Senate in SD36, and Tyler is now the mayor of Muncie. Retiring Republicans are Ways and Means Chair- man Jeff Espich, and Reps. Dick Dodge, Rich McClain, Ralph Foley, Phil Hinkle, Tom Knollman, and David Yarde. They have 104 years of tenure. Yarde is challenging State Sen. Sue Glick in the GOP primary.

Bauer challenge inevitable The looming disaster is already prompting some State Rep. Chet Dobis battled with Bauer and lost his leadership Democrats to think about dumping Minority Leader B. position in the process. (HPI Photo) Patrick Bauer. Lake County Democratic Chairman Thomas McDermott Jr., told HPI that with former Rep. Trent Van John T. Hart. Dobis did not comment on his decision. He Haaften filing in HD76 - a lone bright spot for the caucus had battled Bauer, calling him “paranoid” in recent years, - to run in a race with State Rep. Wendy McNamara that and lost his leadership position when he and Bauer sparred he abandoned as part of the 2010 disastrous “Bayh Domi- over the Illiana Expressway bill. In 2011, House Speaker noes,” a leadership challenge to Bauer is inevitable. appointed the Democrat to a committee chair- “Rep. Trent Van Haaften, if he’s successful in his re- manship, an unprecedented move aimed at power shar- turn to the General Assembly, has already made clear he’s ing, but seen by Bauer as an invasion of his caucus power challenging Bauer,” McDermott said. “One way or another circle. (Bauer) gets challenged.” The Dobis bug out is indicative of the treacherous On Wednesday, Gov. Mitch Daniels, speaking to path Bauer has led House Democrats and the realities of Hamilton County Republicans in Carmel, said of Bauer, “We the new GOP-drawn maps. have been blessed by our opposition. My heart is full of “We wanted a bigger name to fill that spot for us,” gratitude, really.” said McDermott, “but with the make-up of the district, it The big question is whether that challenge hap- was hard to convince them it was a winnable seat. I’d say pens in the coming weeks, with Democrats fretting at Rick Niemeyer is the favorite to win the 11th District.” Bauer directing the caucus campaigns after his gutter In addition to Dobis, Democrats could lose HD5 HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 4 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Monday, Feb. 13, 2012

that Fry is leaving and Sullivan’s terpart. The retiring duo had combined HD97, along with open seats in for 80 years of service. areas represented by Reske and Espich, R-Uniondale, announced possibly Cheatham in Southern his retirement in a letter to the Fort Indiana where Indiana Demo- Wayne Journal Gazette on Friday, crats are seeing their base dra- rather than take part in a GOP primary matically erode during the 2010 showdown with State Rep. Dan Leon- debacle. ard, R-Huntington, that local observers Two consecutive years believed would have favored Leonard. of bitter fighting over the Right “I have worked hard and tried to lead to Work, education reform and well. I hope I have succeeded in the abortion restriction legislation minds and hearts of my constituents,” and a distinct minority of 40 Espich said. “But, in fact, it has been seats left a number of House an easy task to act in their interests. Democrats questioning the civil- This is because I share their belief in ity of the process. Grubb quit Ways and Means Chairman Jeff Espich decided the importance of faith and traditional as caucus chair in January after against a primary with State Rep. . American values in our lives and soci- divisions surfaced within the cau- WBAT radio host Gary Snyder believed that Leon- ety. I have never had to compromise cus over the walkout. Cheatham ard would have been favored. (HPI Photo) my actions or act in ways that were not announced he wouldn’t seek in support of the thoughts of my neigh- another term, citing the contentious atmosphere in the bors.” House. He pointed to other representatives now serv- ing southwest Allen County and Wells County, including Democratic diaspora Leonard, Kathy Heuer, R-Columbia City, and Matt Lehman, But there were other reasons for the Democratic R-Berne. “These incumbent representatives are all my diaspora.Tyler was elected mayor of Muncie. Fry ran for friends. All of them serve the same principles of faith and mayor of Mishawaka in 2011, but an Indiana Democratic traditional American values that most of us hold dear. They Party direct mail piece accusing Mayor Dave Wood of hiring each do a great job serving their constituents and will do a child molester backfired in epic fashion. Fry lost what likewise in their new area in the coming years,” Espich said. was expected to be a competitive race by an astounding “For these reasons, I have decided not to seek re-election 76-24% margin and his House reelection this year was far as a state representative.” from assured. Democrat Jerod Warnock and Republicans Speaker Bosma praised Espich, saying, “Jeff Espich Dale DeVon and Cory Stith have filed and it is unclear who is the most dedicated and talented citizen legislator I have might have an advantage this fall. had the privilege of working with over the course of the Dembowski decided to retire when she was placed past two decades. His constant eye on the taxpayer’s bot- in HD20 with . Other retirements due to tom line and incredible attention to detail have protected redistricting included Stevenson, who gave way to Mara the citizens of our state beyond what they will ever realize. Candeleria Reardon. Reske was drawn into a hostile HD37 He will be sorely missed and fondly recalled as a dedicated and opted to run for Congress. Barden was also drawn into and frugal public servant for many years to come.” a district with another Democrat and decided to retire. Sul- Crawford announced last year that he would retire livan’s new HD97 that is much more Republican prompted and Marion County Democrats have slated Robin Shack- her to run against State Sen. Brent Waltz. leford, who ran a spirited but unsuccessful race against In 2010, the House Republican Campaign Com- Hinkle in 2010. Both Crawford and Espich were elected mittee targeted a number of Democratic caucus leaders, to the House in 1972 and alternated as Ways and Means defeating Bob Bischoff, Paul Robertson and Nancy Michael. chairmen for most of the past two decades. They barely missed Grubb, who won by fewer than 500 Espich and Crawford entered the legislature a votes. couple years after legendary Senate leaders President Pro Tempore Bob Garton and Finance Chairman Larry Borst. House leadership retire instead of upset Borst was upset for reelection in 2004 by Waltz and Garton Unlike legendary Indiana Senate leadership that was defeated in 2006 by Greg Walker. Espich and Crawford left office with the sting of defeat at the ballot box, the followed in the footsteps of power house legislators Pat Indiana House is seeing a change of the guard with the Kiely, Paul Mannweiler and John Gregg, who retired in their retirements of Espich and Crawdord, his Democratic coun- prime. HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 5 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Monday, Feb. 13, 2012

11 GOP primary battles How the open seats stack up The other emerging Of the 11 open seats drawn story line is the plethora of without an incumbent, HPI’s earli- Republican primary battles, est forecast has Republicans with though virtually none take an excellent shot at nine of them, aim at the historic 2010 including: freshman class. n HD11 with Rick Niemeyer Eleven GOP in- (whose father, Ernie, was a former cumbents facing primary state senator) with the winner opponents include Doug taking on the winner of the Demo- Gutwein in HD16 (Lunch- cratic primary that includes Lon pail Republican Diane Childress, Al Cottingham and John Boersma); in Hart. McDermott was unsure which HD21, who faces Lunchpail Democrat would emerge. “All of Republican Randy Conner; the candidates are relatively new,” in HD22 McDermott said. (Jon D. Hare); Don Lehe in n HD13 where Attica Clerk-Trea- HD25 (Franklyn Voorhies); surer (who narrowly Kathy Kreg Richardson in lost to Grubb) faces Stephen Aich- HD29 (Steven R. Powell); ner and Dan Young with the winner Heath VanNatter in HD38 taking on Democrat Mark Straw. (Stephen A. Wilson and n HD17 where Culver Coca- David E. Brown); Timothy Cola executive Frances Ellert (who Neese in HD48 (Bristol lost narrowly to Rep. Dembowski businessman Jerry Brew- in 2010) faces Republican Timothy ton and Randall Weinley); Harman in the primary with no in HD53 (Sam Democrat filing. Weist); Kathy Heuer in n HD24 where Steven Braun of HD83 (Keith Potter); Phyl- Zionsville is favored over Kiefer C. lis Pond in HD85 (against Dobbs and Mindi Fisher McMillan, perennial candidate Denny with the winner taking on Democrat Worman); and Robert Maurice O. Fuller. Behning in HD91 (Michael n HD37 where , A. Scott). a member of the State Board of Other than Boersma, Hare and Conner, it is unclear Education and former chief of staff to Supt. Tony Bennett, at this writing which of the challengers are being supported is taking on Indiana Township Association President Debbie by the Lunchpail Republican PAC. Chairman David Fagen Driskell. No Democrat has filed. has said, “Though the Lunch Pail Republicans PAC was n HD47 where Republicans Leonard Compton, formed to run candidates against incumbents who vote for Mark Meadows, John Price and John T. Young have filed overreaching legislation like ‘Right to Work,’ we are pre- (but no Democrat). pared to use our resources to protect incumbents who are n HD51 where Dr. is facing Aaron attacked for voting against this bill.” Claudy in the primary and Lon Keyes has filed for the Only three House Democrats – in HD2 Democrats. (Ricardo Garcia); Charlie Brown in HD3 (Gary attorney n HD52 where Gary Harbaugh, Paul Moss, David and State Board of Education member Tony Walker); and Powers and have filed with the winner taking Vernon Smith in HD 14 (Sherman D. Carson) - are facing on Democrat Charles Odier. primary challenges. The Brown-Walker race bears watching n HD55 where former USDA official Bob White is due to the challenger’s credentials. facing Republicans Sam Harvey, Lora N. Williams and Cindy In HD100, a district likely to stay Democratic, Sally Meyer Ziemke with the winner taking on Democrat David M. Johnson, Jonathan Katz, Zach Mulholland and Dan Moeller. White has a big fundraising advantage. Forestall have filed and will face former Republican India- n HD64 where Republicans James Amick and napolis Councilman Scott Keller. Forestal, a firefighter, was Thomas W. Washburne have filed with the winner facing endorsed by Marion County Democrats Saturday. Democrat Mark Norton. HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 6 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Monday, Feb. 13, 2012

n HD82 where , a protege of Gregg soothes labor as State Sen. Jim Banks, is facing Mike Caywood, De- nise Lemmon, and Wesley campaign questioned; Ortell with the winner fac- ing Democrat Mike Wilber. Wallace continues on n HD92 where former Marion County sher- By BRIAN A. HOWEY iff candidate Tim Motsinger NASHVILLE, Ind. - As John Gregg addressed a la- is facing GOP primary chal- bor rally in Evansville Saturday, he called his opponent U.S. lenges from Brad Rider and Rep. Mike Pence a “son of a Mitch.” Richard B. Scott Sr. with And as the imaginary backyard sports commentator the winner taking on either State Sen. Jim Banks (left) with would say, “The crowd goes wild.” Democrats Brian M. Cooper, HD82 protege David Ober. The Gregg campaign faced a week of some con- Tyjuan Garrett or Karlee D. sternation and doubt after his surprising statement in the Macer. wake of the Right to Work law Gov. Mitch Daniels signed n And HD97 where Republican A. J. Feeney-Ruiz when he said, “It’s time to move beyond this divisive issue. has been slated by the Marion County GOP with the winner Indiana needs a governor and a legislature that show up taking on Democrat . for work every day and work together with one focus – cre- n HD100: Former Republican Councilman Scott ating jobs, whether it’s for a union or non-union workplace. Keller has filed. Forestal is be favored. Because in the end, it doesn’t matter if you’re in a union or Early HPI favorites in the open seats include Nie- not. If you get laid off, you’re not bringing home a pay- meyer in HD11, Negele in HD13, Ellert in HD17, Braun in check.” HD24, Huston in HD37, Zent in HD51, White in HD55, Ober Some House Democrats were furious, believing in HD82, Motsinger in HD92 and Feeney-Ruiz in HD97. That that Gregg had dissed their walkout strategy that finally list shows the GOP favored in 10 of the 11 open seats. ended the week before the Super Bowl. So was Hammond In HD60, will likely face Morgan Mayor Thomas McDermott Jr., who told HPI that somehow, County Clerk . Welch was drawn into the Gregg must not have received the “memo.” Nancy Guyott district with Foley, who is retiring. Mayfield faces a GOP of the AFL-CIO called the statement “a bit inartfully draft- primary that includes Keegan Clark and Daniel Elliot. The ed.” district is distinctly Republican, but Welch has a history of “I would hope that what John Gregg said was winning in GOP districts. meant in a different context,” said State Rep. David Niez- In HD76, Van Haaften will take on Rep. McNamara, godski, a leading opponent of Right to Work. “We had the race that should have happened in 2010 until U.S. Sen. every right to do what we did, and we were given that Evan Bayh abruptly abandoned his reelection, U.S. Rep. Brad Ellsworth entered the Senate race, Van Haaften the 8th CD, and Sen. Bob Dieg HD76. All lost. The other noteworthy trend is that credible Demo- crats like John Barnes and Sullivan have opted to run in the Senate and not the House.

Epilogue The combination of Republican-controlled redis- tricting, the avalanche of Democrat experience headed for retirement, Republicans favored in a vast majority of the open seats, a still unpopular President Obama, and Pat Bauer calling the shots for a House Democratic caucus still stinging from the awfully executed campaign of 2010 is leading to a Republican super majority in the Indiana House, poised to join their Senate counterparts. Or, if you’re a Democrat, this is a Bauer-induced John Gregg and son prepare to file his signatures on Wednesday. disaster heading toward catastrophe.v HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 7 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Monday, Feb. 13, 2012

right by the constitution. ly primed and motivated for It would certainly be my a fight, as evidenced by the hope that we can move 250 people who showed up forward, working together to hear Gregg and U.S. Rep. in a bipartisan manner for Joe Donnelly in Evansville jobs, because the Demo- Saturday. But labor turnout cratic caucus’s number was light at the Gregg cam- one priority is jobs.” paign kickoff in November Gregg quickly and the campaign doesn’t snapped into damage appear to have a network of control mode, posting labor liaisons in place. on his Twitter account, Read today’s lead “I support the right of story in Howey Politics Indi- Hoosier workers to orga- ana and Gregg becomes the nize and have stood with indispensable Democratic Indiana legislators and man. If he cannot muster a others fighting to protect competitive campaign – and this right.” it already trails Pence $5 The message on million to $1.7 million in the Facebook was: “Now that money war – Democrats Right to Work has been U.S. Rep. Mike Pence files at Government Center South on Tuesday. up and down the ticket are jammed through the legis- (Pence campaign photo) facing a historic assault. lature on purely partisan Gregg must use the labor political lines, my focus is base, convince independents on moving to unite our efforts around what should be ev- that Pence is part of a historically unpopular congressional ery elected official’s top priority – Democrat or Republican cabal, and hope for that opening. – and that is creating good-paying jobs for Hoosiers.” There was a letter to supporters, where he said, “As you know, a Wallace to forge ahead statement does not always convey the tone or the tenor of Republican Jim Wallace found himself short 14 the message. We cannot let the media twist the comments signatures this week, but on Friday decided to forge ahead. into something divisive.” Wallace said he believes the campaign has enough signa- Internally, some powerful Democrats fretted at the tures, saying at a Friday presser, “Our documentation was Gregg campaign’s vetting process. The statement was sent irrefutable,” and called the scenario a “hiccup.” Wallace out by campaign manager Rebecca Pearcy. The campaign added, “I wouldn’t expect that there’s any more basis to doesn’t appear to have a fulltime spokesperson. While challenge it than any of the other candidates. It’s never a Gregg is unopposed in the primary, Democrats know that a good thing to have a hiccup like this. On the other hand, at campaign can be won or lost in the early days of the cycle, the very least, I think we’ve identified a challenge inside of as John McCain can attest after he wrapped up the presi- the system for ballot access. And if at the end of the day dential nomination in early 2008. the voters decide I’m not the candidate for them, I’d like to The Hotline observed: Any time you’re explaining think that we’ve at least surfaced an issue.” to the state’s largest paper that you are not taking shots at But to keep Wallace off the ballot, a voter will have someone or something, it’s a pretty good sign that you’ve to challenge. With the ISTA helping Wallace collect signa- said something you shouldn’t have said in the first place. tures, it’s unlikely a Democrat will. A best case scenario is In 1996, under the tutelage of Democratic pros like for Wallace to use $2 million of his own money to bloody Robin Winston, John Goss and Tom New, the campaign of up Pence and the loathed Congress, keeping Gregg in the Lt. Gov. Frank O’Bannon laid out a finely tuned nuts and game. bolts effort. O’Bannon was out-raised by Indianapolis Mayor “When you’re chief executive, you can’t just be a Stephen Goldsmith, the prohibitive Republican favorite. In Christian conservative Republican,” Wallace said. “You have that kind of atmosphere, a campaign must be well struc- to represent all the people.” tured and there must be an opening to exploit. In 1996, it The Pence campaign seems indifferent about Wal- was Goldsmith’s poor handling of the Meridian Street police lace, with spokesman Matt Lloyd saying it would not chal- riot. lenge the Wallace candidacy. v Beyond that, the Democratic labor base is obvious- HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 8 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Monday, Feb. 13, 2012

not to run against Dan Burton,” Seybold told HPI. “When Seybold, Delph the seat became open, we viewed it as perhaps a once in a lifetime opportunity.” Seybold joins a field that includes former Con- (and Burton) shape gressman David McIntosh, former District Attorney Susan Brooks, former Marion County Coroner John McGoff, Fish- the final 5th CD field ers attorney Jack Lugar, Jason Anderson, IMPD Lt. Mat- thew Mount and William “Bill” Salin (though not the Salin By BRIAN A. HOWEY Bank executive or the former secretary of state), who is NASHVILLE, Ind. - Hours after State Sen. Mike an Indianapolis business analyst. Anderson is a customer Delph decided not to seek the 5th CD – an office for which development manager from Noblesville. many believed he would be Dan Burton’s heir apparent – Seybold has $50,000 in his municipal campaign the Carmel Republican received this email: warchest, but cannot use those funds in a federal race. “If “Needless to say I’m the most relieved pollster in we have one big hurdle, that’s it,” he said of the money Indiana. Look forward to working for your re-election and race. Both McIntosh and Brooks reported more than someday soon enough a race for higher office. Your kids $400,000. In his favor, Seybold said, is “I am someone who are young. I’m a grandfather has dealt with the federal government from the local level. now. Time goes fast.” We bring a different viewpoint.” That email was from The third term mayor, who won in 2003 with 62%, David McIntosh pollster John in 2007 with 67% and was reelected last year with 56%, McLaughlin. The fact that made the final decision after talking with his wife. He also Delph might have been there said he talked with Burton. to activate the remnants of So with this field set without Burton - who has held Rep. Burton’s political net- the seat since 1982 - where does it stand now? And where work, infused with his popularity in Tea Party circles, had might it end up in 13 weeks? the potential to alter the dynamics of what will soon be a HPI believes McIntosh enters as a slight favorite. knock-down-drag-out primary of Republican fratri- cide. For Delph, it was a matter of not wanting to be away from his young daughters. “Missing mornings and evenings with my girls is not a sacrifice I am willing to make,” said Delph of the decision he made last Saturday. He had $200,000 in campaign commitments he would not have been able to collect until after the Indiana Gen- eral Assembly’s scheduled sine die on March 14. Stepping into Delph’s void – and a seri- ous contender to pick up the Burton mantle -– was three-term Marion Mayor Wayne Seybold. “The mayor and I have always been close and I anticipate he will have the support of most of the Burton organization, if not the Congressman himself,” Delph told HPI. WBAT’s “Gary Snyder Show” was reporting over the weekend that a Burton endorsement of Seybold is imminent. Their friendship extended back several cycles ago when Seybold pondered a challenge to Burton. Delph said his advice at the time was to concentrate on being mayor, and other oppor- tunities will arise. “He can be a congressman or a lieutenant governor or beyond,” Delph said of Marion Mayor Seybold is interviewed by an Indiana Wesleyan University stu- Seybold. dent after winning his third term last November with 56% of the vote. (Indiana “We have made the decision over time Wesleyan University Photo) HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 9 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Monday, Feb. 13, 2012

McIntosh and Brooks have money parity - he with primary. HPI Primary Horse Race Status: Safe Walorski, $426,783 reported in the 4Q and $314,218 cash on hand, Safe Mullen. she with $446,828 raised and $325,000 cash on hand. But informed and reliable district sources tell HPI that McIn- 3rd CD: Kolbe didn’t file for Dems tosh’s district name ID is about 28%, compared to 33% for The news in U.S. Rep. Marlin Stutzman’s district is Seybold and Brooks under 5%. that former Republican Kosciusko County Prosecutor David Brooks’ and McGoff’s likely strategy will be to build Kolbe was not listed on the final Secretary of State’s filing their name ID while pummeling McIntosh on issues such list on Friday. Kolbe had announced earlier this month he as his residency – the issue is in vogue these days – and would run as a Democrat, saying the Republican Party had the fact that the former congressman cut a deal with GOP left him behind, but he said in a statement Friday, “I have heavyweights such as Jim Kittle Jr., P.E. McAllister and Fred reassessed my capacity to engage in the immense work Klipsch to run in the 5th CD and not the 6th, where the necessary in such a campaign. Personal and family chal- big money is behind Luke Messer. McIntosh sold his home lenges have arisen which have led to this reassessment.” in Muncie but maintained an apartment in Pendleton while Running for the Democratic nomination is an unknown working in Washington for much of the past decade. field: Kevin R. Boyd, Stephen G. Hope, Justin Kuhnle, Essentially, this race is going to get nasty quickly. John F. Roberson, Tommy Schrader and David Sowards. And where will it likely end up? Stutzman, who will become dean of the Indiana GOP McIntosh is one of the luckiest politicians in delegation now that Burton and Pence aren’t returning, will modern Indiana history. His first foray in Congress came be a heavy favorite. HPI Primary Horse Race Status: in 1994 when he entered, then watched U.S. Rep. Phil Tossup. Sharp retire and Republican Auditor Ann DeVore forget to file her candidacy. He then caught the Republican tsunami 6th CD: Messer’s campaign to lose that year. McIntosh has a vein of national money that will Former legislator Luke Messer stands out in this continue to flow into his campaign, sources tell HPI. And eight-man field. It also includes 2010 U.S. Senate candidate his wife, Ruthie, really really wants David to return to Con- Don Bates, Jr., 9th CD challenger in 2010 Travis Hankins, gress. perennial candidate Bill Frazier, along with John Hatter, Joe Both Brooks and McGoff have fabulous resumes. Sizemore, Allen K. Smith II, and Joseph Van Wye, Sr. McGoff’s name ID is much higher than Brooks’, but he Messer has a huge money edge with $415,440 hasn’t had a track record of fundraising prowess. If McGoff raised in 2011 and $290,405 cash on hand. Hankins was can change that, he could be a credible player down the second at $161,364 and $68,051 cash on hand, and Bates homestretch, particularly with his 2008 and 2010 primary had $104,306 raised and $30,440 cash on hand. These strength coming from Hamilton and Marion counties. three represent the credible candidates in this field. Messer HPI’s perceived pecking order at this early stage is: has other big advantages. His near upset of Rep. Burton McIntosh, Seybold, McGoff and Brooks. But that will almost in 2010 has boosted his name ID. In his 2000 race against certainly change depending on the execution of these cam- U.S. Rep. Mike Pence, he carried Wayne and Hancock coun- paigns. Should be a fabulous race to watch. HPI Primary ties, and represented Shelby and Decatur counties when he Horse Race Status: Leans was in the Indiana House. He has McIntosh. big money and Jennifer Hallowell, one of the top GOP strategists in 2nd CD: Walorski the state. favored Hankins has an intriguing Former legislator grassroots organization, coming Jackie Walorski is a heavy in second in the 9th CD primary favorite, not only in the pri- in 2010 to Todd Young and ahead mary but in the general. She of former congressman Mike first must fend off Dr. Greg Sodrel. But much of that network Andrews, a family physician is in the new 9th, and not the from South Bend, in the GOP new 6th. Bates has some residual primary. On the Democratic Travis Hankins used a grassroots, Tea Party-based campaign name ID from his Senate run. But side, Brendan Mullen is the to finish second to U.S. Rep. Todd Young in the 9th CD in both Hankins and Bates will have establishment primary and 2010, but much of that network is in the new 9th, not the new to find an issue or two to pin on will face Dan Morrison in the 6th where he is running this year. (Hankins Campaign Photo) Messer and money to convey it, HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 10 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Monday, Feb. 13, 2011

otherwise Messer’s 12-year dream of becoming a congress- man will be realized this cycle. HPI Primary Horse Race Bucshon taking arrows Status: Likely Messer.

7th CD: May likely to challenge Carson from right and left Carlos May enters the Republican race to find a By MARK SCHOEFF JR. nominee against U.S. Rep. Andre Carson as a frontrun- WASHINGTON - Freshman Republican Rep. Larry ner. He is seen as an up-and-comer in Indianapolis GOP Bucshon, 8th CD, acknowledges that he and his 88 first- circles. He has a crowded but undistinguished primary field term GOP colleagues haven’t slashed the federal budget of Steven Davis, Tony Duncan, Wayne Harmon, JD Miniear, deficit the way they intended when they stormed into Catherine “Cat” Ping, and Larry B. Shouse. While the new Washington in 2011. 7th CD is not as strong Democratically as the old one, no They have, however, changed the budget frame of one in either Indianapolis or Washington is talking as if this reference, according to Bucshon. seat will be in play this fall. HPI Primary Horse Race “The one thing that the people I was elected with Status: Likely May. changed in the big picture was the direction or maybe the thought process about how the federal government spends 8th CD: Bucshon has big $ advantage its money,” Bucshon said in a recent HPI interview in his U.S. Rep. Larry Bucshon is facing a Tea Party chal- Capitol Hill office. lenge from Owen County housewife Kristi Risk. Bucshon The conversation has now moved “away from has a big money advantage: $127,000 raised, $394,000 where are we going to spend to where are we going to cash on hand, compared to Risk, who raised just $23,982 create efficiencies and effectiveness in the government and and has $10,959 cash on hand. Risk will try to activate the decrease the spending in Washington,” said Bucshon, who Tea Party network that prompted the biggest sur- is a cardiothoracic surgeon. prise on primary night 2010 when Bucshon fended The challenge he faces as her off by just a 16,262 to 14,273 in an eight-man he tries to earn a second term field. With just two in the race this time, Risk this year is that his opponent hopes she can consolidate the Tea Party vote and on the right doesn’t think he’s upset Bucshon. gone far enough in cutting Despite all of the posturing of the Tea Washington spending while his Party, they have yet to win anything of note in foe on the left asserts that he’s Indiana, with Risk and Hankins coming close in undermining Medicare. 2010 while U.S. Rep. Marlin Stutzman won a 3rd Kristi Risk, a substitute CD caucus after losing in the U.S. Senate primary. teacher in the Spencer-Owen Risk has to hope she can put it together at the school system and Christian ballot box, but Bucshon’s money will make that counselor who is running tough. In her favor is the Congressional approval against Bucshon in the Repub- at a historically low 10%. If she can tag that on lican primary, criticizes him for Bucshon, there might be a race here. The winner supporting extensions of the will likely take on former legislator Dave Crooks, a federal budget that prevented Washington, Ind., Democrat. HPI Primary Horse a government shutdown. Race Status: Likely Bucshon. She also says he should not have voted for a measure that averted a default of the 9th CD: Tossup for Dem primary federal debt. U.S. Rep. Todd Young is unopposed in his primary “He voted for every continuing resolution and the and will face one of five Democrats: former Lee Hamilton debt ceiling,” Risk said. aide Robert Winningham, Gen. Jonathan George, John In doing so, he missed opportunities to whack Griffin Miller, John Tilford and Shelli Yoder. The Demo- away at what she sees as overbearing government institu- cratic primary will likely come down to Winningham and tions, such as the Environmental Protection Agency.“The George. Winningham reported raising only $23,846 and best way to curb it is to defund it,” Risk said. had $21,190 cash on hand. The FEC website does not have Bucshon doesn’t regret his votes.“You can’t let the a report from George. HPI Primary Horse Race Status: U.S. federal government default on its debt,” Bucshon said. Tossup. v “It was the right thing to do for the country.” The Democratic candidate for the 8th CD seat this fall attacks Bucshon from the opposite direction. Former HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 11 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Monday, Feb. 13, 2012

state Rep. Dave Crooks would mean that the mu- says that the Newburgh nicipal group in Bloomington congressman’s votes in would not be able to hold favor of a budget pro- up the I-69 extension over posal last year by House environmental concerns. Budget Chairman Paul “This is a common sense Ryan, R-Wis., would de- provision that I think is go- stroy Medicare. ing to significantly benefit Under the Ryan Indiana,” Bucshon said. plan, instead of directly While the candidates paying for Medicare cov- argue over policy, Bucshon erage, the government has taken a lead in the would provide subsidies money race. As of Dec. for participants to buy 31, he has raised $537,311 their own insurance. and has $394,368 on hand, Crooks said according to the Federal seniors “stop me on the Election Commission. Crooks Kristi Risk on her Owen County farm. (Evansville Courier & Press street constantly” to has raised $311,824 and Photo by Tom Langhorne) express concern over has $245,237 on hand. Risk Medicare vouchers. has raised $23,982 and has “They don’t want their Medicare dismantled,” $10,595 on hand. Crooks said. “They don’t want it privatized. He’s picking oil “We’ve communicated well with all 18 counties,” companies making record profits and billionaires – giving Bucshon said. “We’ve worked hard on constituent services. them more tax breaks – over senior citizens in this district. I go home every weekend. We’ve gotten a lot of positive They’re going to punish him for his choices this November.” feedback. I’m pretty optimistic.” Bucshon said in a statement that Crooks is playing Crooks also exudes confidence. The Democratic fast and loose on Medicare. Party cleared the primary field for him, and he is included He maintains that the health care bill approved in the DCCC’s second tier of races. by the previous Democratic Congress – and which he says The district also has lost Republican-leaning areas Crooks supports – requires nearly $600 billion in Medicare – such as Putnam, Fountain and Warren counties – and cuts. gained Democratic territory – such as Perry, Spencer, Du- “It is a shame Dave Crooks and the [Democratic bois and part of Crawford Country. Congressional Campaign Committee] cannot campaign on Crooks, who owns radio stations in Washington, the issues and instead have resorted to attempts to scare Ind., and Vincennes, said he benefits from his tenure as the senior citizens,” Bucshon said in a statement. “As a physi- voice of the Washington High School basketball program, cian who spent 15 years caring for Medicare patients, I am which has produced Indiana University star Cody Zeller and disappointed, but not surprised by this.” won state championships. In his interview with HPI, Bucshon stressed that “That’s a unique advantage we have that’s beyond he is making a difference for the district through his work the bad votes Bucshon has taken,” Crooks said. on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Commit- Risk’s operation is not as well funded as Bucshon’s tee. The five-year $260-billion highway funding measure is and Crooks’. But she said she has grass-roots enthusiasm scheduled for a House vote this week. that goes beyond the Tea Party. She has about 75 consis- Bucshon wrote a provision that would allow states tent volunteers. to take federal dollars from bike trails or beautification “We draw from all walks of life,” Risk said. “There’s initiatives or any other program and redirect them toward political science and political art. I embrace the art of poli- emergencies, such as the fissures that closed the Sherman tics.” Minton Bridge between Louisville and southeast Indiana. She’s also trying to take advantage of skepticism “You shouldn’t have money sitting in an account toward Washington, D.C. “There’s a real negative tone and have an infrastructure problem and not be able to use toward Congress, but it’s real positive for us,” Risk said. federal dollars to fix it,” Bucshon said. Bucshon will find out in the primary whether that He also championed a provision that would allow attitude dominates southwest Indiana. v states to proceed with multi-state projects over the objec- tion of metropolitan planning authorities. In Indiana, this HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 12 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Monday, Feb. 13, 2012

renting two homes is required for service in Congress, only Dems, not SuperPACs the wealthy will serve. Lugar received an opinion from then Attorney Gen- eral Linley Pearson that equated his Senate service to that come to aid of Mourdock of serving the country in other ways, including the military. By BRIAN A. HOWEY On WBAT’s Gary Snyder Show on Friday, the Lugar NASHVILLE, Ind. - Conventional wisdom about the campaign noted that Lugar resides in “all of Indiana.” the Indiana U.S. Senate race was that a national Super PAC Indiana Democrats seemed to be taking a page would eventually come in and save Richard Mourdock’s from October 2010 when the party sent mailers suppos- moribund challenge to Sen. Dick Lugar. But instead of edly backing Libertarian candidates in the 2nd and 9th CDs, FreedomWorks or Club for Growth, the stalking horse is the attempting to split off conservative support from Jackie in tandem with disgraced former Walorski and Todd Young as the party tried to salvage U.S. Republican secretary of state Charlie White. Reps. Joe Donnelly and Baron Hill. Donnelly eked out a tiny Hours after his conviction of voter fraud and per- victory while Hill lost by 14%. jury, White told Fox News that The Democratic motive is clear: it would rather not only had Gov. Mitch Dan- have Donnelly face Mourdock than Lugar next fall. Internal iels voted “fraudulently,” but Donnelly and Lugar polling shows that the Democrat would so had Lugar. White and host fare much better against Mourdock. Eric Shawn also blasted Lugar The issue could be a dangerous one for Lugar. and former U.S. Sen. Evan With Gallup revealing approval of Congress at just 10%, Bayh for continuing to vote any widespread perception of detachment could come back from Indiana addresses while to haunt Lugar, who appears to be in much better shape residing near Washington, D.C. against Mourdock than he was a year ago. Since that time, “You will hear a lot more from me about the equal Mourdock has been a fundraising flop. application of the law that has been applied to me versus Mourdock took aim at earmarks, saying, “I am ap- those that are rich and famous,” White said. palled by the fact that Senator Lugar doesn’t understand That was followed by a Fox News report last the need to end a practice that lends itself to abuse and weekend that revealed Lugar had spent only 325 nights corruption at taxpayers’ expense.” in Indiana since 1977 and had charged taxpayers $50,000 Club for Growth President Chris Chocola, who has for hotel rooms. The Indiana Democratic Party gleefully held off support for Mourdock thus far, criticized Lugar and pumped out press releases of that story. 12 other Senate Republicans for opposing a permanent ban “At the very least, Senator Lugar should be com- on earmarks. “Senate Republicans who oppose a perma- pelled to better explain the more than 20 years’ worth of nent ban on earmarks are hopelessly out of touch with taxpayer dollars used to fund his travel expenses in Indi- the mainstream of the Republican Party and the American ana,” Chairman Dan Parker said. people,” Chocola said. “(Senator Lugar) spends a quarter of the every Lugar has defended earmarks as preserving a year in the state,” said campaign spokesman David Willkie, congressional duty guaranteed by the Constitution. Lugar telling Fox News that between February 1 of 2011 and maintains that Congress ceding spending control to the 2012, Lugar has spent 89 days in Indiana. And while Lugar executive branch would be foolish. is not “domiciled” in Indiana, he does own a farm in the Lugar’s TV and radio campaign ads have state which he still manages. Willkie mentioned a line the focused on the Keystone Pipeline “jobs” issue while calling campaign developed last year when the story first broke on on the Obama administration to repeal its stance on con- the blogosphere. “It’s just like the United States military,” traception. Lugar cosponsored the Respect for Rights of said Willkie. “If you’re military personnel and in defense of Conscience Act. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce launched this country, in service to this country, and you’re overseas a multi-state television ad and grassroots communications you keep your last place of residence.” blitz in 12 House races and eight Senate races, the Hotline Parker pounced: “Senator Lugar needs to reported, including an ad on behalf of Lugar. apologize immediately. Our men and women in uniform As for Mourdock, he skipped the Hamilton County serve in dangerous conditions thousands of miles from Lincoln Day Dinner last Tuesday - attended by 560 Re- home and face enormous risks to keep us safe. Comparing publicans - and opted for a Tipton County Tea Party event their service to choosing to live in a million-dollar home in with his base. That kind of campaign prioritizing have early the suburbs of Washington, D.C., is insulting.” Mourdock supporters like Howard County Chairman Craig v The Lugar campaign reasons that if owning or Dunn questioning their endorsement. HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 13 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Monday, Feb. 13, 2012

only appealing to Catholics, Lutherans and evangelicals as Santorum up next opposed to most Americans, who apparently are Unitar- ians. If that point seems unclear, you obviously went to for a Mitt mash bed early or watched Fox News. By MARK SOUDER Since Santorum now has won four contests, Rom- FORT WAYNE - There is nothing like winning three ney three, and Newt one (all others zero), it is clear what elections in one night to get the front-runner’s attention. will happen next: Out will come the big bucks from the Rick Santorum won Iowa, Mitt Romney won New Hamp- Mitt Mashing machine. It worked on Gingrich, and Perry, shire, and then Newt Gingrich won South Carolina. Newt but will it work on Santorum? ran smack into the Romney negative crusher machine, As some have said, compared to Gingrich’s again. In Iowa the Romney and Ron Paul negatives de- baggage, Santorum has carry-on luggage. However, Foster stroyed Gingrich. Fries, funder of Santorum’s super-PAC, doesn’t print the After rising again on what for same quantities of money as even Gingrich had. Santo- Newt was a positive (“I won’t be the rum’s campaign is thrilled to raise a million dollars, which food stamp President”) and a nega- is what Romney probably spent on just the noon news tive (John King should be ashamed of broadcasts in the last two days in Florida. the example he set for Americans), The money, organization and calendar all favor Romney pummeled Gingrich in Florida. Romney. The only counter to that is that it has also been This is the official definition of pum- true so far as well. In fact, if the trio of Gingrich, Paul and meling: In the last 48 hours Romney Santorum pick different states to focus upon, it could be and his allies ran 13,000 ads and even more challenging. Newt ran 200. Santorum could micro-manage it even further by After Romney won Nevada by a focusing on, say, the Cincinnati through Dayton area in decent but not overwhelming margin, Ohio, cheaper areas of Oklahoma and some other select last Tuesday he ran into Santorum. areas on Super Tuesday, possibly Grand Rapids or Lansing Santorum was the first candidate to top 50%, winning for Michigan. Paul can look for student and anti-war areas. every county in Missouri. Not only did he whip everyone in Gingrich could – well, he doesn’t plan – but he will win Minnesota, but Romney struggled into a weak third even Georgia (presumably), possibly do well in neighboring Ten- with the backing of Governor Pawlenty. Then, in a huge nessee, and maybe do well in Arizona (even with its large shock, Santorum also won Colorado by 5%. Santorum won Mormon population). 241 counties, Romney won 16, Paul won four, three were With proportionate delegate allocation, it is some- tied and Gingrich took one. thing of a nightmare for Romney. Suddenly you see the It was a very bad night for Gingrich with his only advantages of Romney nuking Santorum. win by 25-22 over Santorum. Most presidential candidates Santorum must overcome becoming the condemn- don’t like to run behind “tied.” ing social conservative, which so far he has done reason- The media theme line, that Santorum does well in ably well, but he must broaden his base rapidly. He must the rural boondocks, the home of evangelicals, who still stay calm and not turn into a Newt-like whiner or angry question Darwin’s theory of evolution because they haven’t man when Romney goes after him. He must raise money. watched Henry Fonda as Clarence Darrow (they have no He must get better organized. TV). The theme line was challenged when Santorum also Still, the fact remains that his negatives are won Minneapolis, St. Paul, Kansas City, St. Louis and Colo- lower, he does better among women than expected, and rado Springs. Besides the shock that there are apparently has a message for industrial states. He also served as a evangelicals who have moved into cities, it was decided congressman from a Democrat suburban district of Pitts- that the Catholic bishops had gotten Catholics dispropor- burgh, and comes from a coal miner family. It is not impos- tionately excited. sible for Santorum to be the nominee, but still is unlikely. Having neglected to point out before this week So is a brokered convention, but the odds have increased that Santorum is Catholic, they had some fast explaining to from minimal to just unlikely. do but now had a new conspiracy theory. Of course, Min- Santorum is also not on the ballot in Virginia. In nesota also has a lot of Lutherans, but they apparently are Indiana, if the law is strictly interpreted as opposed to in- considered like Protestant Catholics since Luther was a for- tent of the law, and Santorum is kept off the ballot because mer monk. They insist Santorum is still a fringe candidate, of technicalities in 24 signatures (which is what most of those not for other candidates would call them), there will HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 14 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Monday, Feb. 13, 2012

be outrage among conservative activists, including me, who ment to Gingrich and possibly against Lugar as well. The will blame the Republican establishment, including Gov. challenge for Romney, who many conservatives, including Romney. Romney may try a George H.W. Bush in New me, supported last time, is how to get to the convention Hampshire against Reagan by denying others the debate without destroying any remaining desire of conservatives to opportunity because “he didn’t make the rules.” Bush was unite behind him. correct, but never recovered. People know lack of fairness There is a distinct danger that just yelling “Obama” when they see it. is becoming like yelling “liberal.” It scares you, but you can These elections are already stacked for the get over it more rapidly than you once could. Conservatives wealthy and candidates backed by them. Blocking people’s want to hear some substance, not just trash-talking. v right to vote for major candidates (Santorum has won as many contests as Romney) would likely lead to move- Souder is a former Republican member of Congress.

about to go to ethics school. The county council and com- Charlie’s convictions had missioners are in the process of bringing in the county’s Shared Ethics Advisory Commission that was formed six years ago by several municipalities in the county. Lake Democrats smiling It is a rock-solid organization headed by Cal By RICH JAMES Bellamy, the former chairman of Bank Calumet who now MERRILLVILLE - A host of Lake County Democrats spends most of his time trying to make Lake County a bet- were smiling last weekend as a result of the turn of events ter place. They don’t come any better than Bellamy. in Indianapolis. And, no, they weren’t reveling over the It’s unfortunate the county didn’t make such a New York Giants’ win in the Super Bowl. move when it was being pushed to do so several years ago What had them looking at a time when Lake County government was facing heavy like Cheshire cats was the convic- criticism for the way it operated. There was fear on the tion of Secretary of State Charlie part of some that if the party didn’t publicly improve its im- White, a Republican, on six felony age, the voters might throw them out. charges evolving around illegal The guy leading the charge was U.S. Rep. Peter voting. Visclosky, D-Merrillville, who also is called the unofficial What the Lake County mayor of Lake County. Visclosky pushed the individual Democrats were chanting was, county offices to volunteer for audits and ethics training. “That’s your man, Mitch.” Some did, but more didn’t. A Republican has gone Buncich, a few weeks back, issued an order to his wrong? Could it be true? Ap- merit and civilian employees to not do anything to compro- parently not all the instances of mise their integrity. In other words, if you aren’t sure about vote fraud are confined to Lake accepting a gift, don’t do it. County. And where is the hue and Ethics training, of course, involves a lot more cry from Gov. Mitch Daniels condemning White’s wrongdo- than when to accept or reject gifts. ing? Maybe another time. Among other facets are favoritism, the use of This is the same governor who chastised Lake government property for personal business, and reporting County Democrats at a public appearance in Griffith a fraud and corruption. couple of years ago. “You are entitled to all the lousy, It would be nice if Mitch would publicly make note crummy, graft-ridden government you are prepared to pay of what the county is doing when he makes his next visit for,” Daniels said. up north. Oh, and he might want to bring Charlie White That’s a heck of a thing for a governor to say with him. v about a region of his own state. It’s a real plus for econom- ic development, Mitch. While Lake County has had more James is the former editorial page editor and colum- than its share of public corruption, things are getting better. nist for the Post-Tribune in Merrillville. While White waits to see if there will be jail time in his future, Lake County government officials are taking a step they should have long ago. In part prompted by Lake County Sheriff John Bun- cich, county government officials and their employees are HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 15 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Monday, Feb. 13, 2012

While there is great Tea Party angst about all the Why is Obama campaign bailouts, a fact worth noting is that the domestic auto bail- out from the TARP fund occurred under Republican Presi- dent George W. Bush. opening up an office? In December of 2008, I attended a hearing in By BRIAN A. HOWEY Indianapolis where economists from the Brookings Institute INDIANAPOLIS - On Thursday, the Obama for predicted that a collapse of GM and Chrysler could cost the America campaign opened up a campaign office in Indi- state 150,000 jobs. Not just at GM and Chrysler, but com- ana, a state with a century-old love affair with the internal panies like Cummins and hundreds of auto supplier compa- combustion engine. It is a state that any Republican will nies scattered in small towns and large across the state. tell you is certain to return to the “red” Electoral College The multiplier impact from such a collapse could column next autumn. have been devastating. Not only would toolmakers, engi- There is credence to that line of neers, assemblers and molders be jobless, but thousands thought, with a Public Opinion Strate- of restaurants and service businesses would have been gies Poll in December showing President devastated. While Indiana has a troublesome and persis- Obama’s approval in Indiana stood at 42 tent 9 percent jobless rate today, a collapse of GM and percent, and disapproval at 55 percent; Chrysler would have brought a second Great Depression to wicked numbers for any incumbent. Indiana. We easily could have seen the jobless rate double So why is the Obama campaign or more. investing assets in a state they have no Indiana Republicans were conspicuous in their chance of winning? indifference. Gov. Mitch Daniels warned of the U.S. govern- Because some believe Indiana isn’t ment throwing “good money after bad” and said the do- a lost cause. An internal poll for U.S. mestics should emulate the Japanese companies. He later Rep. Joe Donnelly’s Democratic Senate campaign showed castigated the U.S. Supreme Court for the way it acted on that Obama trailed probable (er, possible) Republican nomi- Obama’s forced expedited bankruptcies of GM and Chrysler. nee Mitt Romney by just 4 percent. An NBC/Wall Street Treasurer Richard Mourdock, with Daniels cheering him on, Journal poll in January revealed that 37 percent of Ameri- tried to thwart the Chrysler merger with Fiat. cans were more optimistic about the economy - the high- An exception was Marion Mayor Wayne Seybold, est level in more than a year and a 7 percent jump from who lobbied Congress for a solution. He had 800 jobs at December. Democratic pollster Peter Hart explained, “The stake at the Marion GM plant. “I had Republicans ask me if psychology about the economic conditions has switched. I had lost my mind,” Seybold said. “But some times you’ve The old saying is ‘a rising tide lifts all boats’ - then clearly - got to make decisions based on your population.” The Mar- this economic optimism has clearly lifted Obama’s ratings.” ion GM plant has since invested $600 million in upgrades In January during President Obama’s State of the and now employs 1,700 workers. Union address, he hit on one subject that has everything to Indiana Democrats in the 2010 cycle never do with Indiana: the American auto industry. “On the day raised the auto industry issue and were mauled in the I took office, our auto industry was on the verge of col- process. President Obama and Vice President Biden came lapse,” Obama said. “Some even said we should let it die. to Kokomo - three weeks after the 2010 elections - to With a million jobs at stake, I refused to let that happen. revel in the restructuring and opportunity to come. I asked In exchange for help, we demanded responsibility. We got Donnelly why Democrats didn’t mount a defense, and he workers and automakers to settle their differences. We got could only smile wistfully and say, “That’s a good question. the industry to retool and restructure.” I don’t know.” “Today, General Motors is back on top as the That probably won’t happen this year. Donnelly world’s number-one automaker,” Obama said. “Chrysler will challenge either Sen. Dick Lugar or Mourdock in the has grown faster in the U.S. than any major car company. Senate race. He is sure to bring it up. He is sure to remind Ford is investing billions in U.S. plants and factories. And Hoosiers of their distinct auto heritage, and who was there together, the entire industry added nearly 160,000 jobs. We when the industry was on the verge of collapse. This is why bet on American workers. We bet on American ingenuity. the Obama campaign is opening up an office in Indiana. And tonight, the American auto industry is back.” It’s still far below the dozens of offices the campaign had And it is. General Motors has regained its position across Indiana in 2008 and winning Indiana will be a long as the world’s top automaker and its plants are humming in shot, just like it was in 2008. But it will lay the groundwork Fort Wayne, Marion and Bedford. Chrysler is hiring off the in case the auto industry issue resonates with Hoosiers. v street in Kokomo. And it should, unless you like Depression. HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 16 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Monday, Feb. 13, 2012

Eric Bradner, Evansville Courier & Press: In- million of campaign cash won’t be easy. Lugar’s stopover stead of owning a home in the Hoosier state, Republican Monday was low key as 25 supporters crowded the tables U.S. Sen. Richard Lugar lives in Virginia and stays in hotels in the basement of Vera Mae’s to hear the politician now when he visits the place he has represented for 36 years. deemed a statesman (that happens when you stick around It’s perfectly legal. Still, Lugar’s Republican primary op- long enough) speak off the cuff for an hour. He was quick ponent and eventual Democratic foes want to make sure to tell those listening that he understands the key issue of that fact takes a prominent place in the public eye dur- this year’s elections: “jobs, jobs, and jobs.” v ing this campaign season. At the center of an effort to defeat Lugar, both by tea party-backed Republican state Sheila Suess Kennedy: I have this mantra Treasurer Richard Mourdock and Democratic U.S. Rep. Joe that I am sure annoys the hell out of the students in my Donnelly, is the need to (depict) Lugar as what Mourdock policy class: “It’s more complicated than that.” It is part of calls a “globe-trotter” who has lost sight of his home state. my effort to explain that policy decisions frequently have Criticism over his residence is the latest example. “This is consequences beyond those that we can easily identify–be- just a story about Richard Lugar being out of touch. He, yond the superficial issues that pundits exploit for ratings in effect, punishes Hoosiers by billing taxpayers for hotel and politicians employ to agitate their bases. The auto bail- rooms when he comes to his hometown. It’s inexcusable,” out was a perfect example, and in his column today, Brian said Ben Ray, an Indiana Democratic Party spokesman. Ac- Howey does a great job of explaining why the policy choice cording to Indiana Attorney General Greg Zoeller, was not the simple matter of “bailing out losers” that’s no problem, since Indiana’s constitution that Tea Party activists and libertarians evidently allows those in the service of the nation to keep believe it was. As Howey writes “In December their last address. The Lugar campaign brushed 2008, I attended a hearing in Indianapolis where off the criticism, saying the senator spent 89 days economists from the Brookings Institute predicted in Indiana over the last year. And, Lugar political that a collapse of GM and Chrysler could cost the director David Willkie said, Lugar is following the state 150,000 jobs — not just at GM and Chrysler law. “It’s the same as when Dick Lugar was in but also at companies like Cummins and hundreds the United States Navy, he kept his residency there. When of auto supplier companies scattered in small towns and Lugar is in town, he sometimes tends to a family farm that large across the state. The multiplier impact from such a he manages, located in southern Marion County. It’s 600 collapse could have been devastating.” Howey’s larger point acres of corn, soybeans and walnut trees. Lugar trims the was political: that the success of the bailout puts Indiana trees, though he hires a farmer to handle the corn and soy- “in play” this November. (I’d add to that the recent passage beans.” Can any of the complaints stick? It’d be tough. v of Right to Work legislation, which certainly has energized the Democratic base.) But whether Obama wins or loses Doug Ross, NWI Times: From a Northwest Indiana the state, Howey’s description provides a “teachable” mo- perspective, watching the Charlie White political implo- ment for those open to such lessons. Modern industrialized sion has been entertaining and informative. Ask downstate societies are complex mechanisms. Very few things are as politicians what they think of Northwest Indiana politicians, simple as they may once have been (or seemed). If ideolo- and the terms “Democrat” and “corrupt” too often are used gies win out – and it doesn’t much matter which ones– interchangeably. There have been numerous examples of we’re all going to be in a world of hurt. v public corruption convictions involving Democrats in North- west Indiana, sure, but White proves the Democrats don’t David Coker, Evansville Courier & Press: In the have a monopoly on crooked politicians. v afterglow of the big announcement that Toyota Motor Man- ufacturing in Princeton will soon become the sole source Larry Riley, Muncie Star Press: Indiana’s senior for the gasoline-electric hybrid variant of the popular member of Congress, the quite senior Richard G. Lugar, Highlander mid-sized SUV, it is truly difficult to predict what stopped by Muncie this week to show a few Republicans this move may mean to the future of the local work force he’s still alive and kicking as he enters his 7th -- and per- and what ancillary effect the expansion and investment at haps not even last -- campaign for U.S. Senate. Lugar has the plant will mean to the local economy. In a presidential been a staple for the GOP in the Senate since 1976. The campaign year dominated by so much negative national last time he ran, Democrats didn’t even run an opponent and international news, to hear of this major investment against him. This time around is a different story: One of on the part of Toyota is encouraging and may signal a new own party, or at least a wing of it, opposes him in the pri- course for the company. It also provides our local economic mary, though defeating a six-time incumbent rolling in $4 development officials with additional ammunition.v HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 17 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Monday, Feb. 13, 2012

Colorado on Tuesday. Maine was Rom- birth-control and sterilization cover- Romney wins ney’s only chance to reset the race’s age, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Maine primary narrative for more than two weeks Bishops has declared total opposition and a loss in the Northeastern state to any compromise on the issue. The BANGOR, Me. - Former Mas- would have been another setback for organization wrote that it will con- sachusetts governor Mitt Romney won his campaign. Republicans will not tinue pushing for a complete end to the Maine Republican presidential cau- vote again until the critically important the birth-control mandate “with no cuses and a straw poll of conservative primaries in Arizona and Michigan on less vigor, no less sense of urgency” activists Saturday, victories he hopes Feb. 28, followed by Super Tuesday than before the Obama administration will put his campaign back on track on March 6, when 10 states will hold decided to let nonprofit church-affili- and help him regain momentum after elections. ated employers such as hospitals and losing three nominating contests last universities, and not just churches, week (Washington Post).The Repub- technically opt out of the requirement. lican party of Maine declared Romney Romney takes “The only complete solution to this the winner of a presidential survey religious liberty problem is for [the of voters attending the state’s local CPAC straw poll U.S. Department of Health and Human caucuses. WASHINGTON - At the straw Services] to rescind the mandate of And Romney also came out poll conducted at the CPAC event in these objectionable services,” the con- on top in a poll of activists attend- Washington, Romney won 38 percent ference said in a statement released ing the annual of the 3,408 votes cast, giving him a late Friday. Conservative healthy cushion over the 31 percent Political Action won by Santorum. Gingrich won 15 Conference in percent of the vote and Paul took 12 Mayor Tyler Washington. percent. Romney’s good day is unlikely Romney will not reopens FD stations to put to rest continued questions be awarded del- from the right wing of the party about MUNCIE - The heater kicked egates from the his candidacy. Top conservative activ- on early Saturday afternoon within wins, though the Maine results could ist Richard A. Viguerie in a Saturday the truck bay at Muncie fire station be mirrored at a state convention in statement scoffed at Romney’s de- No. 4 (Muncie Star Press). Any other May where the state’s 24 delegates scription of his own tenure as Massa- day, this simple act wouldn’t gar- will be awarded. In Maine, Romney chusetts governor as “severely con- ner a second thought; on Saturday, won 39 percent of the poll votes; servative” in a Friday speech to CPAC. however, it was an indication for the Texas Rep. Ron Paul took 36 percent Viguerie insisted that in 50 years of southeast side of Muncie that its fire of the vote, while former Pennsylva- work in Republican politics, he’d never station was again open for business. nia senator Rick Santorum captured heard Romney described that way. The Mock Avenue fire station -- closed 18 percent. Former House speaker “Romney has shown, once again, that in the spring of 2009 in a cost-cutting Newt Gingrich won 6 percent. In a he can mouth the words conservatives move by former Muncie Mayor Sharon statement, Romney said the voters use, but he has no gut-level emotional McShurley’s administration -- officially of Maine “sent a clear message that connection with the conservative re-opened Saturday in a ceremony at it is past time to send an outsider to movement and its ideas and policies,” the 52-year-old building. Also being the White House, a conservative with said Viguerie, chairman of Conserva- celebrated Saturday was the official a lifetime of experience in the private tiveHQ.com, who has endorsed Santo- re-opening of fire station No. 6 in sector, who can uproot Washington’s rum. McCulloch Park, which closed last culture of taxing and spending and February due to flooding and mold- borrowing and endless bureaucra- related problems in its basement. It cy.” Catholic bishops was a doubleheader of celebrations in The tiny Maine race — fewer which Muncie Mayor Dennis Tyler -- a than 5,600 votes were cast — had blast compromise former city firefighter -- was thrilled taken on increased importance in to participate. “You saw the looks on recent days as Romney had faced WASHINGTON - After initially the neighbors’ faces and how proud new worries about his ability to unite telegraphing optimism about President they are and how happy they are,” the Republican party after losing to Obama’s decision Friday to amend the Tyler said. “Right, wrong or indifferent, Santorum in Missouri, Minnesota and religious exemption for mandatory HOWEY Politics Indiana Page 18 Weekly Briefing on Indiana Politics Monday, Feb. 13, 2012

when these neighborhood fire stations experts don’t come cheap. That’s why are operating the way they should, Buttigieg is asking the South Bend Winnecke appoints they’re part of the community.” Common Council to give him more ex-Weinzapfel aide flexibility in what he pays certain department heads. “We are compet- EVANSVILLE - Cutting bureau- ing with other cities,” the mayor said, cratic “red tape” to encourage devel- FSSA revamp enters “and other cities pay better.” Buttigieg opment in Evansville was a key theme took office Jan. 1 and still needs to for Republican mayoral candidate its final phase fill the positions of city attorney, city Lloyd Winnecke and the GOP’s City Council candidates last year (Evans- INDIANAPOLIS - The gover- engineer, director of public works, ville Courier & Press). Now that he nor called for a “midcourse correc- executive director for community and has been elected, Winnecke has one tion” at the state’s public-assistance economic development, director of hu- of the city’s most partisan Democrats agency more than two years ago, an man resources and director of infor- — Rose Young, chief of staff to former about-face after months of criticism mation technology. Interim managers Mayor Jonathan Weinzapfel — helping over Indiana’s outsourcing of services are serving in those roles now. He said oversee the new thrust. Young, a for- to a private contractor (Turner, Fort the salary levels set for those jobs mer office or campaign aide to several Wayne Journal Gazette). Today, the have made it difficult to land the best Democratic elected officials, delegate state’s welfare agency has improved candidates. to the 2008 Democratic National its speed and accuracy enough that Convention and daughter of the late it’s ready to bring online the last and Democratic political mainstay Louis largest county in the state – Marion Ballard vetos Iaccarino, began working this month County. Getting there has not been Indy smoke ban as a “project manager” at the Evans- easy or inexpensive, but Indiana was ville Vanderburgh County Building cited last year for most-improved pay- INDIANAPOLIS - Indianapo- Commission. The commission handles ment accuracy by its federal partner lis Mayor Greg Ballard has officially much of the permitting that precedes in the food-stamp program, the U.S. vetoed the smoking ban proposal that residential and commercial develop- Department of Agriculture’s Food and targeted bars and clubs (WIBC). The ment. Nutrition Service. In Allen County, Mayor is out of town, but released which began the new program about a statement that says he returned a year ago, performance measures are City-County Proposal 18 without his the highest in years. Statewide, the signature. The Mayor says he believes Columbus mayor’s agency has seen more Hoosiers take private clubs should be allowed to ‘rookie mistake’ advantage of more convenient online create and maintain their own policies application options. And the improved regarding the smoking and non-smok- COLUMBUS - Mayor Kris- performance is coming at a time when ing mandates. ten Brown has pledged support for more residents than ever are seeking minority issues, about three weeks aid, said Adrienne Shields, director of after she missed Martin Luther King the Indiana Family and Social Services Bayh gives Indiana Jr. Day events in Columbus (Columbus Administration’s Division of Family Republic). Brown, who was criticized Resources. “This has been a very long, Democrats $10k when she missed the events, apolo- gized Saturday during the monthly tedious and difficult process,” Shields INDIANAPOLIS - Former Sen. meeting of the National Association for said. Evan Bayh gave $10,000 of his $10 the Advancement of Colored People. million in leftover campaign funds to She called her absences a “rookie the Indiana Democratic Party in Octo- mistake” by a mayor still learning how Buttigieg calls for ber, according to his latest disclosure to prioritize responsibilities. “I will be report (Indianapolis Star). That’s a higher city salaries there next year,” she assured the local nice chunk of change, but it’s also less NAACP members, who had invited SOUTH BEND - To make the than Bayh reported spending to send her and laughed forgivingly at the city run as effectively as possible, out holiday cards. His former cam- response. Member Ann Jones admit- Mayor Pete Buttigieg says he needs to paign spent $1,000 to take a photo for ted she was put off that the mayor not be able to hire the best talent avail- the cards, $10,000 to print them and only did not attend, but also did not able (South Bend Tribune). But those $4,418 to mail them. send a letter or video. top engineers, lawyers and other