V13 N22 Thursday, Jan. 25, 2007 Our politics of personal destruction

The poison of the ‘04 campaign By Election Day, the Kernan-Davis campaign, which failed to effectively use Kernan’s status as a war hero, suc- dissolves into blogosphere bounties, cessful mayor and a governor who got through the tragedy of Gov. O’Bannon’s death, resorted to the IPALCO rumors, innuendo and bad blood issue that called Daniels “greedy” for his role in the sale of the company and the subsequent tanking of its stock By BRIAN A. HOWEY prices. For the first time in modern Indiana politics playing INDIANAPOLIS - In October 2004, just before the at the highest levels, the personal character of one candi- final sequence of the showdown between Mitch Daniels and date was questioned by another. When Kernan was asked Gov. Joe Kernan, I wrote a column that pondered the most successful person- alities in modern Indiana politics. They were people like Doc Bowen, Birch and , , Dick Lugar, Frank O’Bannon, Robert Orr, Lee Hamilton, Frank McCloskey and . if he was calling Daniels “greedy” as his campaign ads sug- “What stands out with the cream of the Hoosier gested, Kernan answered, “Those aren’t my words. Those crop is that none of these men resorted to personal attack. are his words. I stand by whatever that person said.” They relied on the intrinsic trust they had built up with the Or as my Oct. 28, 2004, column noted, “Gov. people,” I wrote. But that had started to crumble in 2004. Kernan made a departure from others in his position who Hoosier Democrats were incensed by Republican Chairman never questioned an opponent’s personal integrity or mo- Jim Kittle Jr.’s “Legacy of Neglect” pamphlet (on issues) tives.”

and an unflattering video aimed at Gov. Kernan during the Now, fast forward to See page 3 party’s annual dinner. 2007. With the fading of big city

Leasing the lottery

By MORTON J. MARCUS INDIANAPOLIS - Folks I talked to, Democrats and Republicans, liked the Governor’s State of the State speech. The fault they found was that the speech was sched- “The only thing I’m interested in uled opposite the IU basketball game with Iowa. Isn’t that an right now is the Colts going to the impeachable offense in Indi- ana? Super Bowl. How’s that for a punt?” The part of the speech - U.S. Sen. Evan Bayh, asked on that intrigued me most was the idea about leasing the rights MSNBC whether he and Sen. Hillary Clinton to the lottery in order to get talked about the 2008 presidential ticket money to establish scholarships Page 2 Thursday, Jan. 25, 2007

and endowed chairs at our universi- The Howey Political Report is The Howey Political Report ties. The idea is to slow or reverse the PO Box 40265 published by NewsLink Inc. It Indianapolis, IN 46240-0265. brain drain. was founded in 1994. That’s a heap of different www.howeypolitics.com thoughts thrown together in one bold Brian A. Howey, Publisher [email protected] initiative. Mark Schoeff Jr., Washington Indianapolis Office: 317-506-0883. First, there is the Hoosier Lot- Writer tery. A lottery advances the proposi- Indianapolis Fax: 317-254-0535. Mark Curry, Washington Writer Washington, DC Office: 202-256-5822. tion that great rewards in life are dis- Jack E. Howey, Editor Business Office: 317-254-0535. tributed by chance. Is that what we want to teach our children? Don’t we Subscriptions: ©2007, The Howey Political Report. want them to learn that life’s rewards $350 annually HPR via e-mail; All rights reserved. Photocopying, Internet are the result of preparation and hard $550 annually HPR & HPR Daily Wire. forwarding, faxing or reproducing in any work, not scratching on a piece of Call 317-254-0535. form, in whole or part, is a violation of paper? federal law. Second, if there is to be a lottery in Indiana, why is it a state- Scholarships always sound about a brain drain? You can read owned monopoly? If we condone like a good idea. We have the notion about such problems afflicting virtually lotteries, let them operate like bowling that there are many potential students every community and state in North alleys and other forms of recreation. who are denied a college education America. What it means is that our Let the lottery be taxed at the same because of its financial burden. How- children move away for greater oppor- rate as other forms of recreation. Let ever, Indiana’s economic problems do tunity; in doing so they gain experi- competitors come into and exit the not stem from the lack of college de- ence and perspective. If they stay at industry as they will, as long as they grees. It is the lack of adequate high home they will know only the limited don’t cheat their customers. Don’t standards of Indiana. we believe in the competitive mar- We want other people’s ket place? energetic, well-educated children to Third, and this idea Presi- come to Indiana. Let them bring fresh dent Bush might like, why not make eyes to Terre Haute and Richmond. it easy to put part of Social Security Let them offer new ideas for Angola money into lotteries? You would and Anderson. In time, some of our have your regular FICA deduc- own children will return and we will tion on your pay check, but some feel blessed by their energy. It is not portion (as you choose) would go the state’s job, nor that of any institu- toward the Hoosier lottery or a tion, to interfere, by bribery or other fund of lotteries. That way those inducement, in the free flow of people who want to bet on the lottery within the nation. would have direct payroll deduction There is no fundamental dif- without the nuisance of standing ficulty with leasing the lottery. But in line to buy tickets. That should would leasing generate more money if be a step toward increasing lottery anyone could have a piece of it? Buy participation, which, for some reason, school education that leaves students your bank’s lottery tickets on-line or seems to be an aim of this leasing unprepared for either college or the at your ATM; get BK lottery tickets as scheme. work place. If this can be corrected change from Burger King. Break the Fourth, why use the one-time by money, then let’s allow school cor- lottery into pieces and the initial rights and annual money derived from the porations to raise their property taxes. might not garner up-front as much lease for scholarships and university The lottery was supposed to as the lease to a monopoly. But the endowed chairs? Are our universities help support public education. Has opportunity for many to prey upon inferior to those in other states? I it? Or has it been used as a substitute the ignorant and dispirited has always have never heard any university presi- for other funding, particularly the local been worth a bundle in the long run. dent bemoan the poor quality of his/ property tax. (Unfortunately, a band v her faculty. They may want to retain of bright lights in the legislature wants Mr. Marcus is an economist, their best, but that could be done by to eliminate the property tax, but author, and speaker, formerly reducing the number of senior admin- that’s a subject for another time.) with the Kelley istrative positions on campus. Fifth, and finally, what’s this School of Business. Page 3 Thursday, Jan. 25, 2007

From page 1 newspapers, the relationships are? Will you tell me? I’ve wrestled with this idea for a long between those newspapers and time. Part of me sees this as ‘outing’ and the whole debate formerly competing TV stations, that can be had over that. I’m putting the debate to rest a new era of what can be called the “politics of personal as far as I’m concerned though. By introducing this hate- destruction” has commenced here in Indiana and beyond, ful amendment yet again, these bigots have declared war fueled in part by the blogosphere that is rushing into the against my family - and that is an attack on marriage.” news vacuum. Granted, there has been some of this stuff In the old media models, it would have been the ranging from “Limous for diapers” in 1994 to the gay bash- state’s larger newspapers and TV news which would have ing stuff used against State Rep. John Frenz in 2004 that investigated and substantiated deviate conduct and political has played out every two years at the legislative level. inconsistencies. But as bottom lines shrink and the search What’s different is that this poison is now com- for profits intensifies, newspapers like the Indianapolis Star ing out at the gubernatorial level and, currently, under the have slashed staff and sliced away older reporters (with name plate of one of the major parties. higher legacy costs) who had the institutional memory for The personal attacks in the ‘04 campaign translat- context. ed to some of the bitterest partisan jabbing in the in 2005, where at one point Gov. Daniels Indiana Democrats v. Chickens & Perverts referred to then-House Minority Leader B. Patrick Bauer If this kind of politics of personal destruction as a “throwback politician” and a “car bomber” when the doesn’t make you cringe, there was the case this past week Democrat threatened a walk-out that could have destroyed between Taking Down Words (linked to indems.org) and most of the ‘05 legislation. a man who has been wearing a chicken suit and tailing A year later, it reached a feverish pitch during the Mayor Bart Peterson, holding a sign saying “Bart Lied.” Major Moves debate. Taking Down Words is Wagner’s blog, presumably Within this time period, the Hoosier blogosphere paid for by Indiana Democrats. It is carving new territory continued to develop. Most were independent, like Gary for a mainstream political party. It has become the state’s Welsh’s Advance Indiana site, created as a response to the most vociferous media critic. gay-baiting Advance America antics of Eric Miller. But there And, Lord knows, Indiana could use one now is the , whose communications that the Indianapolis Star can’t report on its radio and TV director Jennifer Wagner writes the daily “Taking Down Words” blog. This past month, this blogosphere erupted into a frenzy of outing and politics of personal destruction. Advance Indiana recast an Election Day 2000 story in ‘Honestly, kiddo, do you think a gal would sling the Logansport Pharos-Tribune that quoted extensively this much mud if she had something to hide?’ an interview with Tracy Johnson Hershman, the ex-wife of Democrat Communications Director Jennifer Wagner State Sen. Brandt Hershman, who alleged her ex-husband “a few years earlier drove her to an abortion clinic in Mer- rillville where he paid for her to have an abortion and then filed for divorce one week later.” competitors and the Indianapolis News is gone and is no Advance Indiana accused Hershman of hypocrisy longer a rival watchdog. Nor can the Star’s “news gathering for sponsoring the constitutional amendment to ban gay partner” WTHR-TV keep it honest. Indiana needs a profes- marriages. sional, academic affiliated media watchdog. As the Star On the gay-lesbian website Bilerco this week, continues to bleed circulation, its shrinking bottom line has blogger Bil Browning posted this: “I specifically want to prompted it to cut staff and is now relying more and more learn more about the alleged blowjob one of our married on free, reader-generated content. legislators got caught receiving in the Statehouse parking But this is dangerous territory for a political party lot. I also want to know more about the single legislator which, at least in the old media models, relies on earned (with the biggest ‘gay face’ in the Statehouse!) who sup- media to get part of its message out. That becomes harder posedly got all of his money after a rich non-related older to do as Wagner lambastes entities ranging from the India- man died and left it all to him. Rumor has it that there’s a napolis Star to HPR, which noted the popularity of the blog northern Indiana legislator who’s in the closet and a female in its Dec. 21, 2006 cover story (“The end of 20th Century lawmaker who allegedly had an abortion or two but still Politics”) but also noted that Wagner had become the “nas- ranks as a Super Christian with the Right to Life. I’ve heard tiest woman in Indiana politics.” that a couple out-of-town legislators have been spot- The thrust of that story was about changing media ted visiting the Unicorn Club and the gay baths and that and how it will impact future campaigns as the 30-sec- several have a fondness for blow. Do you know who they Page 4 Thursday, Jan. 25, 2007

ond TV ad becomes a dinosaur, told mostly through the To which the Democrat’s Communications Director perspective of New Democratic Network operative Simon responded, “Honestly, kiddo, do you think a gal would sling Rosenberg. But Wagner, who describes herself as a mud- this much mud if she had something to hide?” slinger, noted only the remark about her, and responded This week, Wagner had her sights on the Chicken with a searing, unsubstantiated personal attack on a sub- tailing Mayor Peterson. This dissolved down into a bizarre ject she knows little about in either fact or context. conversation about men having sex with children in mall bathrooms. A case can be made that while Wagner writes a continued on page 5 clever, chatty blog that preaches mostly to the Democratic choir, she does a lousy job of communicating the party message to the masses and news media. Wagner likes to say “moderate” Republicans love to read her blog. Our Republican sources like it because Wagner spends most of her time blogging and little time trying to reach new voters Culture war of nerves and building relationships with members of the news media By ABDUL HAKIM-SHABAZZ who can convey the party message. INDIANAPOLIS - A battle is getting ready to brew A quick analysis of e-mails sent to subscribers from in the Indiana General Assembly, but it’s not one that you Wagner and her Republican counterpart, Robert Vane, is will see on the floor. It is one that if fought as intense as I instructive. Since the beginning of the year, Wagner has think it will be, there will be a lot of personal, private sent six e-mail communications; Vane 22. and potentially embarrassing information “coming out” Over the past two weeks alone, Vane has sent out about some Indiana lawmakers. six e-mails to the party faithful. Topics have included party The fight concerns information and positive media on the Governor’s ‘07 legis- SJR-7, an amendment to the lative agenda, daylight-saving time impact on business, and Indiana Constitution that would pre- and post-promotion of the State of the State speech. limit marriages to one man and During the same two week period, Wagner sent one woman and prohibit the out just one e-mail on Jan 16. Its content: informing folks, state from concerning the rights ironically enough, that Indiana Democrats are pondering of married couples to same sex more online communications this year and asking readers couples and other unmarried to audit the Democratic website to contribute ideas for a couples. I personally don’t see the need for this and in fact major future revamp. have never had a problem with gay marriage. However, individuals who are more culturally conservative than I am Missed 2006 statewide opportunities do. I respectfully disagree. A closer examination of the autumn 2006 campaign But what will be interesting to watch is if the forces sequence is even more interesting. Wagner sent out only of the far right go forward, they may see their personal four e-mails concerning the three statewide campaigns for lives put on display. Already at Advance Indiana, oper- secretary of state, treasurer and auditor. These concerned ated by Gary Welsh, there is a repeat of a story regarding treasurer candidate Michael Griffin’s 75-year toll road fund- pro-life Sen. Brandt Hershman featuring allegations by his ing plan on Sept. 13-14. ex-wife that he forced her to have an abortion in 1997. With the party putting only $50,000 into the three Hershman called the allegations “dirty politics.” campaigns combined, the party’s earned media compo- Hershman’s story is but one of a potential nent was not only vital, but virtually non-existent. This many. At Bilerico, a blog run by Bil Browning, names, with- lack of activity becomes even more glaring when the three out naming, quite a bit of dirty laundry. And it is calling on Democratic statewides all lost narrow races to Republicans: readers to offer up anything else. It will be interesting to Griffin by 61,921 votes, Joe Pearson by 89,455, and Judy see who gets named. Anderson by a mere 36,064 votes out of the 1.6 million After more than two years in the Statehouse, I’ve cast in those races. heard quite a few stories about lawmakers whose personal lives would run contrary to public statements they’ve made Bounties & dirt about morality and values. Most of the rumors I have kept On Jan. 19, Wagner noted that another blogger - at just that, rumors. Sir Hailstone - put out a public feeler for dirt. “I am posting But now the situation is about to escalate. And it a bounty,” Hailstone said. “Someone who can come up with will not be just a Republican issue either. There are Demo- verifiable dirt on one Jennifer Wagner aka ‘the TDW Bitch’ crats with potential skeletons as well. Regardless of the will be rewarded. That broad needs to go down and go outcome, this is not going to pretty, but it will be some- down hard. Her and her Kommie friends.” thing worth watching. v Page 6 Thursday, Jan. 25, 2007

Here’s a sample thread: It’s homophobic to allege that a gay man has 2008 Indiana Governor sex with children in a mall bathroom. Sorry, bucko, but you Governor 2008: Republican: Gov. Mitch don’t get to pull those tricks here. You’re right. I’m a joke. Daniels. Democrat: Senate Minority Leader Richard Yet you’re arguing with me. Posted by: TDW | Jan 22, 2007 Young. 1996 Results: O’Bannon (D) 1,075,342, at 10:26 AM Goldsmith (R) 997,505, Dillon Jen are you suggesting that I posted these (L) 35,261. 2000 Results: remarks? Check the IP addresses, I didn’t. However I have O’Bannon (D) 1,230,345, McIn- heard similar comments about ***** and the Eastgate tosh (R) 906,492, Horning (L) Mall. I was told that it was a “man station” and ***** was 38,686. 2004 Results: Dan- a regular. I don’t know that to be true, just something I iels (R) 1,302,912, Kernan (D) was told. Posted by: indyernie | Jan 22, 2007 at 10:46 AM 1,113,900, Gividen (L) 31,644. Ohmygawd, listen up! I’ve heard that straight 2008 Forecast: Evansville guys go to bars in Broad Ripple to meet girls. I don’t care Mayor Jonathan Weinzapfel is “flattered that his name where people meet as long as they’re consenting adults. is coming up” in 2008 gubernatorial speculation, said But when you start throwing out allegations about sexual his communications director Audra Levy. “He’s running relationships with children, you draw my ire. And you lose for mayor and right now he is focused on the mayoral your commenting privileges. Posted by: TDW | Jan 22, race. He hopes people will give him another term.” Cur- 2007 at 10:52 AM rently no Republican is lined up against Weinzapfel despite state GOP efforts The face of Indiana Democrats to convince leading political figures like Vanderburgh County Commission- At a time when there is a war that is killing and er Cheryl Musgrave. Pressed further maiming Hoosiers, the legislature is considering milestone on whether he might seek the guber- education, tax and health care issues, the natorial nod, Levy said, “He hasn’t Indiana Democratic Party’s public face is thought that far.” However, more and that of its communications director who is more Democrats we’ve talked with see making far more enemies than getting the Weinzapfel as an attractive candi- party’s story out. The Democratic Party’s date should Indianapolis Mayor Bart website is populated with ancient headlines Peterson decline to run. Former First and outdated stories while Wagner and fel- Lady Judy O’Bannon is chairing the low bloggers wallow in the gutter. As Abdul Evansville Mayor campaign of Sen. Richard Young, notes in his column (see page 4), we hear Weinzapfel who filed his exploratory committee many rumors, but choose not to pursue papers Tuesday morning, giving his elements of personal lives involving public figures unless campaign a dose of credibility. Young is telling Demo- a case can be made that it impacts their ability to function crats that he had a conversation with Mayor Peterson, in office or offers a compelling contrast between personal who told him he would not be running. Young, 64, is actions and public statements and stances. considered a “long-shot for the office,” according to the What appears to be occurring now is rumor-mon- Indianapolis Star and many Democrats HPR has talked gering and witch hunts, an era of incivility, name calling with. Young said, “I’ve always been an underdog. I have and derisive comments about personal appearances, and been in a lot of races over my career and in almost every intolerance fueled by the anonymous shield of blogging on case I was given no chance of winning. I have always the Internet. Where it all ends is anyone’s guess. been successful, and I’ll be successful once more.” Gov. Wagner’s boss is Indiana Democratic Chairman Dan Daniels and Peterson attended the Colts-Patriots AFC Parker, a key ally of U.S. Sen. Evan Bayh, who has made a Championship game last Sunday. For all the talk that Pe- recent career of urging bipartisanship and ... civility. A few terson could challenge Daniels for governor in 2008, this days after Gov. Kernan’s defeat, Bayh uttered one of the is quite a bipartisan story (Tully, Indianapolis Star). “I most sensible quotes and one we’ve repeated frequently: like the mayor a lot,” Daniels said. “He’s doing a good job “We need to be a party that stands for more than the sum under difficult circumstances. The more I know him, the of our resentments.” more I like him.” That doesn’t sound like two guys ready It’s hard to believe that Sen. Bayh condones this to square off against each other. The 2004 Libertarian type of activity by the Indiana Democratic Party he revived candidate Kenn Gividen has left the party and will no and needs as an organ of common sense, outreach, new longer seek office, the Columbus Republic reported. Sta- ideas and “Hoosier values” as he aspires to ascend to the tus: LEANS DANIELS. v national ticket in 2008. v Page 6 Thursday, Jan. 25, 2007

Lugar ‘not confident’ about arguments you made. We went into this largely united, in our assumptions and in our convictions. And whatever you voted for, you did not vote for failure. Our country is pursu- surge as Hagel erupts ing a new strategy in and I ask you to give it a chance By BRIAN A. HOWEY to work. And I ask you to support our troops in the field INDIANAPOLIS - U.S. Sen. Richard Lugar didn’t and those on their way.” come out in support of a resolution opposing President The day before Bush’s State of the Union, Lt. Gen. Bush’s troop surge. But in a stunning comment, Lugar told David Petraeus acknowledged before the Senate Armed the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Wednesday, “I Services Committee, “The situation in Iraq is dire. None of am not confident that President Bush’s plan will succeed.” this will be rapid. The way ahead will be neither quick nor His remarks came as U.S. soldiers engaged in an easy.” intense battle along Baghdad’s Haifa Street, just outside Amid all of this, fissures are beginning to snake the Green Zone. through the on the Iraq War. Lugar added, “It is unclear to me how passing a “I wasn’t impressed,” Souder told the Kendallville non-binding resolution that the president has already said News-Sun the day after Bush announced the troop surge. he will ignore will contribute to any improvement or modifi- “I don’t think it sounded like a new plan. I’m very frustrat- cation of our Iraq policy. This vote will force nothing on the ed. There is no end in sight. It’s getting worse every year.” President, but it will confirm to our friends and allies that Souder said he didn’t think putting more troops we are divided and in disarray. The into the mix was the answer. “This sounds president is deeply invested in this like Vietnam so much it’s scary,” Souder plan, and the deployments ... have said. already begun.” Souder won a sixth term with just That brought about a power- 54 percent of the vote in 2006, his clos- ful rebuke from Nebraska Republican est election (he defeated Rep. Jill Long Sen. Chuck Hagel, who said pas- with 55 percent in 1994). He joins other sionately, “This is not a defeatist Hoosier Members in competitive districts resolution. This is not a cut and run – Democratic U.S. Reps. , resolution. We are not talking about cutting off funds, , and not supporting our troops. This is a very real, responsible - to question the Iraq troop surge. addressing of the most divisive issue in the country since U.S. Reps. Mike Pence, and Steve Vietnam. Buyer, who represent overwhelmingly Republican districts “I think all 100 senators ought to be on the line and enjoying big pluralities last year, are all supporting on this,” Hagel continued. “What do you believe? What are President Bush. you willing to support? What do you think? Why are you Pence acknowledged last Sunday on CNN’s elected? If you want a safe job, go sell shoes.” Late Edition “the skepticism of a great number of Ameri- At one point, Hagel exhorted his colleagues, say- cans. I was in Muncie, Indiana, earlier this week at a town ing, “You look into that camera and you tell the people hall meeting ... and I heard a great deal of anxiety about back home what you think.” At least eight Republicans, the lack of progress and stability in Iraq. And frankly, including Sens. Gordon Smith, George Voinovich and Sam when I met with the president to talk about this new way Brownback, are expected to vote against the non-binding forward, I was skeptical. I had heard from our military Senate resolution this coming week. commanders, during all of my trips to Iraq, that a larger “There is no strategy,” Hagel said of the Bush American footprint in that country was not consistent with administration’s war management. “This is a ping-pong our long-term goals. game with American lives. These young men and women “But,” Pence said, “What I heard from the presi- that we put in Anbar province, in Iraq, in Baghdad are not dent, what the American people just heard from the beans; they’re real lives. And we better be damn sure we president last week, was not just more troops for more know what we’re doing, all of us, before we put 22,000 troops’ sake, but the president laid out a new strategy, new more Americans into that grinder.” tactics, new rules of engagement where we would put Iraqi The Lugar-Hagel exchange came less than 24 forces in the lead. But we’ve all got a challenge. And the hours after President George W. Bush made a less than commander-in-chief has a challenge selling the American impassioned plea to give war a chance during his State of people.” the Union speech. Failure this coming year will not only be an Ameri- “Give it a chance to work,” Bush said. “I have can foreign policy disaster, but also one for the Republican spoken with many of you in person. I respect you and the Party in 2008. v Page 7 Thursday, Jan. 25, 2007

of touch with voters in the district,” said Jessica Boulanger, National GOP wastes no NRCC communications director. “The 9th District is certainly going to be a priority for the National Republican Congres- time attacking Rep. Hill sional Committee.” The Democratic Congressional Campaign Commit- By MARK SCHOEFF JR. tee wasn’t surprised by the NRCC attack on Hill. “He’s a WASHINGTON - Democrats in the U.S. House of Democrat who is going to stand up and deliver for families Representatives got off to a fast start, using their newly of his district,” said Kate Bedingfield, DCCC spokeswoman. minted majority to approve six signature bills in the first “And they’re going to try to distort his record.” 100 hours of the legislative calendar. National Republicans looking ahead to the 2008 election got out of the gate quickly, too, launching an Hill touts 100 Hour agenda Hill and his colleagues see the 100 Hours agenda attack late last week on Rep. Baron Hill (D-9th CD) for as a delivering tangible results on issues that help put them several of the votes back in power. he cast during the “Our work these opening Democratic past two weeks will flurry. directly help Hoosiers,” The Na- Hill wrote in a Jan. 23 tional Republican op-ed in the Louisville Congressional Com- Courier-Journal. “The av- mittee, the cam- erage CEO makes more paign arm of House before lunchtime than a Republicans, issued minimum-wage worker a news release on makes in a year. This is a Jan. 19 that took blatant disservice to our Hill to task for hard-working Hoosiers. several of his votes Slashing interest rates on on the 100 Hours subsidized loans for our agenda. college students will save On the Hoosier students more minimum wage, than $4000 when the the NRCC said Hill legislation is completely “voted against the phased in by 2011.” interests of Ameri- Hill’s office heard ca’s small business- positive constituent es and their ability reaction to the 100 to create jobs.” On Hour agenda. “We were the prescription bill, bombarded with calls,” he “voted to restrict said Katie Moreau, Hill’s seniors’ access to U.S. Rep. Baron Hill discusses strategy with new Marion County Democratic spokeswoman. “I think life-saving drugs as Chairman Mike O’Connor at the Indiana Democratic Convention in June 2006. it’s playing very well, es- well as access to O’Connor served as a key campaign consultant. (HPR Photo by Brian A. Howey) pecially because of the their neighborhood fact that this legislation community phar- was passed with biparti- macist.” On the energy measure, he “voted for $6.5 billion san support.” in new taxes on American energy producers, for higher For instance, 82 Republicans voted to increase the energy prices for American consumers.” On student loans, minimum wage, 124 to cut student loan interest rates and Hill “voted against increasing access and affordability for 36 to end some oil company subsidies. middle- to low-income students.” Even in a competitive district that Hill recaptured from GOP Rep. in November with only 50 per- GOP ready to take back 9th CD cent of the vote, it is an early start to the 2008 campaign. A GOP leader in the district, however, argued that The NRCC wasted no time in portraying Hill as too liberal Hill will pay dearly for votes that raise taxes or put him on for the 9th CD. the liberal side of social issues. “Baron Hill has established a record of being out “Any uptick in national sentiment for the Repub- Page 8 Thursday, Jan. 25, 2007

lican Party will put “Baron is a much this seat right back enlightened candi- in the Republican date having lost (in column,” said Glenn 2004),” said Sautter. Murphy, GOP chair- “I don’t think any- man in Clark County. one’s going to sneak “A little dose of up on him again.” (House Speaker) Whether they’re Nancy Pelosi is going going to try to sur- to go a long way for prise Hill or take him conservatives in this on with a frontal as- district.” sault, the GOP needs Both par- a candidate. Sodrel, ties fought hard to who owns a Jeffer- get the 9th CD in sonville-based bus their column in 2006. and trucking com- Sodrel spent $2.6 pany, hasn’t indicated million and Hill spent whether he’s going to $1.8 million. A total challenge Hill for a fourth time. of $2.3 million in All eyes will be on former congressman Mike Sodrel to see if he runs against Rep. “People are wait- independent expen- Hill a fourth time. (HPR Photo by Brian A. Howey) ditures were spent ing for Mike,” said to defeat Sodrel and Murphy. “People $3.1 million to beat Hill. need to give the Sodrel family some space right now so The two have hooked up in three consecutive elec- that they can think about where they are and whether they tion cycles, with Sodrel beating Hill by about 1,500 votes in want to take this run in the next election. I certainly hope 2004, a year when President Bush and Gov. Mitch Daniels they do.” ran strongly in the state. Hill got his seat back last year, Ninth Congressional District Committeewoman when Bush’s popularity dropped precipitously due to the DeeDee Benkie told HPR, “I think it is still a good possibil- Iraq war and the GOP was tainted by congressional scan- ity that Sodrel runs again and in a good GOP year, he wins. dals. Hill has too many problems to go without an opponent and Hill-Sodrel contests have been at times bare-knuck- will not last long.” v led and highlighted by the candidates’ apparent personal dislike of one another, which periodically surfaces in allega- tions from each side about a lack of civility.

Rematch Again? Hill was a stronger campaigner in 2006 than he was two years earlier, said Chris Sautter, a Washington- based Democratic consultant (and HPR columnist) who The Hits Keep Coming has worked on Indiana races for more than 20 years. In a November meeting with Indiana reporters in Washington, on HPR’s Web Hub Hill vowed to stay more closely connected to the district www.howeypolitics.com this time around. Page 9 Thursday, Jan. 25, 2007

who we’re hearing pondering runs: 2nd CD: State Sen. Tom Weatherwax was the choice of a number of 2nd CD Republican chairs. Other names include State Rep. and State Sen. Joe Zakas, who ran against former U.S. Rep. in 1996 and lost 58-41%. 3rd CD: Democrats hope 2006 nominee Fort Wayne Councilman Tom Hayhurst seeks a rematch after losing a 54-46 race against U.S. Rep. . Hostettler’s bug-out 7th CD: Republicans expect 2006 nominee Eric Dickerson to abandon his maverick mode and seek a Influential Indiana Republican officials confirm rematch with GOP approval. what HPR reported last October: that former U.S. Rep. 8th CD: Gibson County Prosecutor Robert Krieg, essentially quit actively campaigning for who ran unopposed in his last election in a heavily Demo- re-election early last fall. cratic county. Another pondering a run is Putnam County “He packed it in,” said an influ- Sheriff ential Indiana Republican Party official. Mark “There was no schedule. No staff. No Frisbee. events. No prayer chains.” 9th HPR and other members of the CD: We’re news media knew something was amiss hearing when Hostettler had no public schedule former during the traditional Labor Day week- congress- end kickoff. Through September, we man Mike continued to hear news media such as Sodrel the New York Times and National Hostettler Sodrel Walorski Zakas is consid- Public Radio who were unable to ering a contact the campaign or ascertain a public schedule. The fourth Washington Post’s Juliet Eilperin acknowledged the race against U.S. Rep. Baron Hill, but that his family isn’t collapsed Hostettler campaign when HPR compared notes too thrilled. Another name to watch is former Lugar aide with her at the Bulen Symposium. Kevin Shaw Kellems. It was a prominent local elected official who con- firmed for HPR what everyone had figured out. Hostettler Scholer joins Gov’s legislative team had essentially “retired” (his word) telling the Evansville- Former State Rep. Sue Scholer has joined Gov. area official in a phone conversation that he was content Daniels’ legislative liaison team headed by John Okeson. to hold immigration hearings in 13 states last August and September while his opponent, Democrat Brad Ellsworth A Hoosier at RNC built up a big lead. Rep. Ellsworth would go on to defeat Anne Hathaway, a former campaign aide to Dan Hostettler in a 22-percent landslide, a stunning margin Quayle and who has worked campaigns for the Republican in one of the most competitive Congressional districts in National Committee here, has been named chief of staff to America. Chairman Mike Duncan. Since HPR began publishing in 1994, we’ve wit- nessed a number of high-profile incumbents and challeng- And speaking of Quayle ... ers who fell far behind in conspicuous races but continued CNN reported that the former Vice President and to slug it out to the end. Hostettler was the first one who U.S. senator from Indiana won’t be seeking the 2008 presi- essentially gave up a race, and not just any campaign. Con- dential nomination. It said Quayle has more realistic goals trol of the U.S. House hung in the balance. The GOP state in mind: traveling to Greece, going on a safari in Botswana, party official told HPR on Tuesday, “It had a huge impact and NOT skydiving, like his boss, President George H.W. on down ballot races ... the legislature, county races. They Bush did several years ago. were left high and dry.”

Got a tip for the Boar’s Nest? Send it to: Potential ‘08 challengers [email protected]. v It’s a little less than two years away, but already names are surfacing for 2008 Congressional races. Here’s Page 10 Thursday, Jan. 25, 2007

Peter King, Sports Illustrated - I think polls. During one-party rule, the governor could success- that’s the only way Chicago can win, if Indy decides, just fully pressure the Republican legislative majority in both as New Orleans did in crunch time, that a serious blitz legislative chambers to stay the course, his course, ignor- package is just too unsound, and the rush will be of the ing or even insulting the opposition. Daniels in the past conventional variety. And I also don’t know the condition denounced state Rep. B. Patrick Bauer, the South Bend of LCB Nick Harper’s injured ankle that kept him out for Democrat who had been House minority leader, as a “car three quarters against New England. Chicago’s springboard bomber” and “beyond embarrassment.” But at the start to success is a very strong ground game, but Indy’s good of his State of the State address, a humbled Mitch joked against the run now that Rob Morris has joined the mix at about Bauer, now as speaker of the House, having changed strong linebacker, and Bob Sanders is in the secondary. I seats. “You look good up there,” the governor told Bauer. see a big Indy win, with the hurry-up gradually breaking “Thanks for watching my back.” Laughter erupted. And this down an opportunistic but worn out Bear defense. Final was one time when the response was loud on both sides of score: Colts 34, Bears 24. v the aisle separating Republicans and Demo- crats in the House chamber. Ironically, Bauer could play a key role in protecting the gov- Gary Gerard, Warsaw ernor -- or at least some of the governor’s Times-Union - I was never a big fan of key proposals -- at a time when Republicans W’s decisions with regard to Iraq. But now, are not all solidly behind Daniels and some I can say with some certainty that W likely Democrats would like to seek revenge in a is presiding over the biggest foreign policy way that could deadlock everything. Dan- blunder in the history of the modern world. iels isn’t dumb. Nor is Bauer. Each under- Following are a few excerpts from pre-war stands political reality. They have been com- columns of mine. First, from September municating and seeking common ground on 2002: As for Osama and Saddam, I can’t some legislative matters, even as they clearly help but think that if there was any link between the two disagree on continued privatization of governmental assets we would have concrete evidence of it by now. There and operations. Neither wants a worthless session. That probably have been legions of our most capable intel- would not be good for either politically or for the state. v ligence agents working on establishing that link since long before 9/11. I know what the government tells us. David Brooks, New York Times - Iraq is I know Saddam is a bad man. But I just have a hard time at the beginning of a civil war fought using the tactics of swallowing the concept that some sort of big bomb event genocide, and it has all the conditions to get much worse. perpetrated by Iraq is imminent. And I really don’t think Iraq already has the warlord structure that caused mass we should attack Iraq without the blessing of the U.N. and murder in Rwanda, Bosnia, Sierre Leone and elsewhere. the support of the vast majority of our allies – including Violent, stupid men who would be the dregs of society the ones in the Arab world. And then this, in December under normal conditions rise amid the trauma, chaos and 2002: Some of these W policies really have me scratch- stress and become revered leaders. Some people become ing my head. It’s like the U.S. is trying to enrage half the hyperaggressive and turn into perfect killers. Others endure planet. I fully support the “hunt-down-al-Qaida” policy. ... a phased mental shutdown that looks like severe depres- But I have a tough time swallowing the “run-Saddam-out- sion. They lose their memory and become passive and of-Iraq” policy. I really don’t see the two as the same thing. fatalistic. The become perfect victims. Amid the turmoil, I know Saddam is a bad man and I know he has ignored the complexity of life falls away, and things are reduced to U.N. resolutions. But there are plenty of other countries run stark polarities: Sunni-Shiite or Shiite-Sunni, human-subhu- by bad men and good men that have ignored U.N. resolu- man. Once this mental descent has begun, it is possible to tions. v kill without compunction. The weakness of the Bush surge plan is that it relies on the Maliki government to somehow Jack Colwell, South Bend Tribune - Gov. be above this vortex. The sectarian vortex is not fomented Mitch Daniels, hailed by the chief as “My man Mitch,” by extremists who are appendages to society. The vortex voiced during his State of the State address some themes is through and through. The Democratic approach, as also in vogue now with the nation’s chief executive.Daniels articulated by Sen. Jim Webb - simply get out of Iraq “in suggested that he might have made mistakes in pressur- short order” - is a howl of pain that takes no note of the ing for and getting what he wanted during one-party rule. long-term political and humanitarian consequences. Does Sale of Toll Road operations and handling of the time issue the party that still talks piously about ending bloodshed in come to mind. He called now for bipartisanship. He was Darfur really want to walk away from genocide the U.S. is nice to the opposition. What a difference a day makes, partly responsible for? v especially if the day is the one when voters go to the Page 11 Thursday, Jan. 25, 2007

Peters, Kelty file, Ellsworth, D-Ind., puts the finishing Senate Bill 9 is a home-rule solution but no Dem emerges touches on his staff, his congressional to a complete legalization of fireworks profile is coming into focus Evans( - last year. “One size does not fit all. We FORT WAYNE - While the ville Courier & Press). Ellsworth, can’t legislate from Indianapolis what two Fort Wayne Republican mayoral who defeated John Hostettler in is good for every community,” said hopefuls wasted no time in filing their November to represent Indiana’s 8th Sen. Victor Heinold, R-Kouts. candidacy, county Democrats are still District, will run his office in at least without a candidate for the city’s top one way that represents a dramatic spot (Fort House committee departure from Hostettler’s methods. Wayne Unlike most House members, Hostet- passes FDK; no funding Journal tler did not use the franking privilege, INDIANAPOLIS - The House Gazette).Ar- believing incumbents used it as an Education Committee yesterday did chitect Matt electioneering tool. Ellsworth believes the easy part -- passing a bill that re- Kelty and the newsletters will help him be more quires full-day kindergarten classes in Allen County open and accessible to constituents. all schools next fall (Louisville Cou- Commission- rier-Journal). But House Bill 1800 er Nelson doesn’t provide the substantial funding Peters both Muncie lost 700 jobs but -- as much as $250 million annually filed Wednesday to run for mayor. It could be ‘stabilizing’ -- for the program. was the first day candidates could officially file to run for city offices this MUNCIE - State employment year. Not only did no Democrat file to figures released Wednesday indicate Audit reveals more run for mayor, but no Democrat has that Muncie is one of a handful of problems with BMV publicly expressed interest in the seat. Indiana cities to lose jobs in the past INDIANAPOLIS - Indiana’s Allen County Democratic Party Chair- year (Muncie Star Press). Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles has few man Kevin Knuth said he is not con- Workforce Development numbers safeguards in place to keep track of cerned because Democrats have until show Muncie had 53,000 jobs in De- its finances and cash on hand, leaving Feb. 23 to file to run. “We will have a cember, down 700 jobs from Decem- the agency open to fraud, according credible candidate by the filing date,” ber 2005. Anderson, Bloomington, La- to a state government audit released he said. “I think people are panicking, fayette and South Bend also lost jobs, yesterday (Louisville Courier-Jour- and there’s no reason to panic.” while Indianapolis, Kokomo and Gary nal). The State Board of Accounts, gained jobs. But job numbers can be which oversees the books of state and tricky, said Ball State University econo- No GOP opponent local government bodies, concluded mist Patrick Barkey. “I would take it the agency has failed to correct long- for Mayor Armstrong with a large grain of salt,” Barkey said, standing inadequacies in its record COLUMBUS - Republican Party noting that state employment figures keeping. The board also found prob- Chairman Ted Ogle intends to let can be based on incomplete surveys lems with a new bureau computer Columbus Mayor Fred Armstrong lay and are subject to “significant” revi- system installed last summer. That claim to a fourth term without a fight sion. “We’re in a long, slow decline,” system “does not have an associated (Columbus Republic). Ogle spoke to Barkey said. The good news? “It comprehensive accounting system, The Republic at Bartholomew County would appear to be slowing down and including the maintenance of a ledger Courthouse Wednesday as Republicans stabilizing,” he said. Hundreds of jobs balance,” according to the report. filed en masse for election or re-elec- at Sallie Mae and other new employers tion to City Council. could indicate a turn-around in the job picture. Portage candidates file PORTAGE - The field of may- Detective files for mayor oral candidates in the May 8 Demo- ANDERSON- Anderson Police Home rule fireworks cratic primary got just a little larger Department Detective Kris Ockomon bill passes committee Wednesday. Fred Monacy, 51, a former became first Anderson mayoral candi- Portage Street Department employee date to file as a Democrat. INDIANAPOLIS - Communi- ties could limit or ban fireworks almost filed in the race. He is running against year-round under legislation passed his former boss, Street Department Ellsworth will use 9-1 by the Senate Local Government Superintendent Steve Charnetzky and franking privileges and Elections Committee on Wednes- City Council member Olga Velazquez. Velazquez also filed Wednesday. WASHINGTON - As Rep. Brad day (Fort Wayne Journal Gazette). v