Why John Gregg Lost

As promised earlier this month. INDY REPUBLICAN is giving it's own postmortem view as to why we all got the Governors race here in Indiana wrong. As we have stated here previously we had outlined Eric Holcomb's many weaknesses as a candidate. We stand by every word in those posts. But  as with all elections the Governors race did not occur in a vacuum. Outside events played a role in shaping the outcome of the race. Overall we feel that John Gregg ran a good campaign and Eric Holcomb didn't run the best campaign. However that being said there are several areas where the Indiana Democratic Party messed up with other races and that along with other factors is what allowed Gregg to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. Gregg ran a good attack ad against Holcomb arguing about how Holcomb was selected by the State Republican apparatchiks and not by the voters. Which is a criticism of Holcomb we have made as well. But the fact that as we pointed out this summer is how democrats did the same thing when they dumped Baron Hill and replaced him with Evan Bayh to run for the Senate. So attacking the backroom deal way in which Holcomb was selected probably was diluted by the fact Democrats had done the same with the race for the Senate. Hence the attacks on Holcomb didn't land the punches they otherwise would have. Gregg did phenomenally well at fundraising. He raised almost as much as Mitch Daniels did in his 2004 race. We can understand Gregg's campaign being proud of this. However bragging about having raised this near record haul was not a good idea. Gregg's whole campaign was being pitched to the voters that he was a different kind of candidate, one who would bring together both parties, a candidate who was not a typical politician. That seemed to be working. When his campaign decided to boast of his fundraising this sent a message that he was just another politician interested only in raising money and also made him appear somewhat less than squeaky clean. Gregg did make mention briefly of Eric Holcomb's very nasty 2000 race for state representative. But did not elaborate or go in depth as to the details of that race. If he had pointed out how Holcomb had accused his opponent of promoting perversion. That would have seriously undermined old Eric. Since the voters were not given that information simply saying that Holcomb had engaged in one of the nastiest campaigns in state history did not give undecided voters any reason to either vote against Holcomb or to board the John Gregg express. Gregg was good at rebutting attacks on himself which is something most candidates are terrible at. He was not however as skilled at attacking Holcomb. Not that his attacks were bad it's just they should have been better. A experienced candidate like Gregg should have been aware of this. The first mention in campaign ads that Holcomb was the new candidate for Governor actually came from the Gregg campaign. Bad move. They should have let Holcomb be the one to make his first move. With Gregg in the unique position for a Indiana Democrat of having both more money and higher name recognition than his republican opponent. Gregg should have spent his time building himself up, campaigning non stop throughout the state, and until Holcomb was able to actually get his name out there, keep the race about why Gregg should be Governor. So that by the time that Holcomb would have been able to scrape enough money together to run ads. Gregg would have solidified his position even further and Holcomb would have had an even bigger problem. By mentioning Holcomb in an attack ad Gregg simply gave Holcomb free advertising and made Holcomb's name recognition go up. Yes it was bad publicity for Holcomb. But it got Holcomb's name out there and gave him a boost he desperately needed. Gregg should have not mentioned Holcomb period unless or until Holcomb had gotten his name out. Free piece of advice to all you aspiring candidates out there: Do not help your opponent in anyway! Don't attack them unless they give you reason to.

As to why we all felt so strongly that Gregg would win. Simply put given Gregg's skill at fundraising, his having campaigned for Governor for over a year versus Holcomb's three and a half months, combined with the fact that all polling up to that point had shown that Gregg was ahead. With the exception of a last minute Howey Politics poll that showed Gregg and Holcomb tied (more on that in a minute). The trend seemed to be breaking Gregg's way. Even Larry Sabato the great political scientist and publisher of The Crystal Ball thought Gregg would win. What all of us and Dr. Sabato missed is the last minute poll that showed Holcomb and Gregg tied 42-42 and the number of undecided voters having grown. This should have told us that Holcomb was improving his position, that Gregg was not, and with more undecideds that clearly signaled the race was tightening. Hillary Clinton certainly was a drag on Democrats and Trump's margin certainly helped some down ballot Republicans but at the end of the day. Gregg lost because he did not use his resources as well as he should have. If we were Indiana Democrats we would get rid of the dead weight at the top of the state party and work on winning races at the local and state legislative level. Also they need to start calling out the Republican Establishment and their many shortcomings rather than doing things like voting en mass with them to gut the State Board of Accounts! Yes they don't have enough votes now to do much but they can start to earn them by taking principled stands for good government! If they don't even complain about the RINO Establishment of Daniels-Holcomb and their shortcomings than they will not give voters any reason to vote for them. Hopefully we all have learned something valuable here. Mainly how not to fuck up a campaign!

Is Eric Holcomb Toast?, "Godfather" Mitch Daniels given $200K for "Good Performance", Purdue's Standards are slipping!

INDY REPUBLICAN wanted to wish all our readers a very blessed Monday. Whether you  spent part of the weekend at your houses of worship, in meditation, or catching up on some much needed rest. We hope you all  had a decent weekend! Now for all the craziness that has been going on here in the Hoosier State!


For our first story we turn to the news that Monmouth University released a poll on Friday Oct 14th, 2016 that shows Democratic Candidate for Governor John Gregg leading his fake Republican opponent Eric "Bagman" Holcomb 50% to 38%. If this is true it means that good old Eric is in serious trouble in his bid to become Indiana's next Governor! Fellow blogger and great guy Paul Ogden has his take on this story on his blog in a post entitled: "New Monmouth Poll Shows Indiana Republican Candidates Trailing in Statewide Races". We urge you all to go check this out. The Indianapolis Business Journal in an article written on Friday October 14th, 2016 had this to say:


A new poll by Monmouth University conducted this week says Democrat John Gregg has built a whopping 12-point lead over Republican Eric Holcomb in the race for governor.
The poll also found Republican Donald Trump with a 4-point lead in Indiana over Democrat Hillary Clinton in the race for president and Democrat Evan Bayh with a 6-point lead over Republican Todd Young in the U.S. Senate contest.
The poll of 402 likely voters was conducted Tuesday through Thursday and has a margin of error of 4.9 percent.
The findings show Gregg leading 50 percent to 38 percent; Bayh ahead 48 percent to 42 percent; and Trump up 45 percent to 41 percent.
The poll results for the gubernatorial and Senate races vary widely from a WTHR/Howey Politics Indiana poll performed just last week and released Oct. 6 that found Gregg with only a 2-point lead and Bayh and Young in a virtual tie.




Holcomb campaign manager Mike O'Brien issued a statement Friday questioning the Monmouth results.


"This poll is a complete outlier and laughably inconsistent with every other public poll released this election season,” he said. “Our internal data shows we are on a winning trajectory in this margin-of-error contest. After only 12 weeks on the campaign trail, compared to our opponent's 282-week campaign, we are in the passing lane headed into the home stretch of this race and remain confident that Lt. Governor Eric Holcomb will be Indiana's next governor."


You may recall that we have previously discussed Mike O'Brien on this blog before and pointed out how he is just simply a water carrier for any flunky wearing the Republican jersey! He especially likes Republicans like Mitch Daniels and Eric Holcomb who hold no ideological or core convictions at all! In other words candidates who are just like him!


We would like to give a little newsflash to Mike O'Brien! Mike while it's true this poll is inconsistent with the size of John Gregg's lead over your candidate Eric Holcomb. Almost every poll that has come out since Eric was picked by 22 party insiders to run for governor back in late July has shown Gregg in the lead from anywhere to 2 to 5 points! So for you to say your team is on a winning trajectory might be a little bit of a stretch to say the least! Now Holcomb may pull of a win but his campaign has been badly run from the start! We will not rehash that here because we have done so elsewhere on this blog.


Now onto the next topic "Bagman" Holcomb's old boss as Charlie White so lovingly refers to him as "Godfather" Governor Mitch Daniels. It appears that the good old "Godfather" Mitch is doing so well in his job as President of Purdue University that he is being given over $200,000 as his performance incentive pay! He is already guaranteed a base salary of $420,000. Nice work if you can get it! Of course it helps that Mitch Daniels appointed the Purdue Board of Trustees that in turn gave him his position as Purdue University President! The Indianapolis Business Journal goes onto report:


Mike Berghoff, chairman of Purdue’s Board of Trustees, said in a statement that “we have an extraordinary institution and an extraordinary president.”


Daniels also will receive an additional $100,000 the trustees pledged to give him last year if he stayed until June 30, 2016, which was part of a retention incentive. The incentive promises Daniels additional pay for every year he stays at the university until 2020.
In the 2014-15 academic year, Daniels received 90 percent of the $126,000 of possible at-risk pay. In addition, Daniels was paid extra for areas in which he exceeded expectations such as donations, which reached $343 million, surpassing the board's $260 million goal.


Back in July we reported on the theory by some that Mitch Daniels decided not to run for Governor so he wouldn't miss out on $1 Million in retention bonuses if he stayed in his position at Purdue till 2020. The theory seems a little more solid to the INDY REPUBLICAN staff now. We also find Mike Berghoff's ass-kissing of Mitch Daniels to be way overboard! At this point we can't tell where Berghoff's head ends and Daniels ass begins! Folks for a so called "fiscal conservative" Mitch Daniels certainly seems to have no problem from enriching himself at the taxpayers trough! Thank God this man isn't running for President! Although depending on how the Governor's race goes. Don't be surprised if Mitch Daniels decides to try to run for Governor again in 2020! Just like the scheming mouse in "Pinky and The Brain". Mitch Daniels always seems to be scheming to take over the world. Not to demean that great classic "Pinky and the Brain". But we can't seem to help but see remarkable similarities between "The Brain" and former Governor Daniels. Both have inflated egos, both are driven by a belief that they are superior than everyone else, and both are insecure due to there lack of height.


Holly Bailey writing on February 28, 2011 for Yahoo News about Daniels and his height problem quotes a Daniels ally as saying of him:

Mark McKinnon, a former Bush adviser and close friend of Daniels, defended his former colleague, saying that after four years of President Obama, Americans might want someone a little "nerdy … balding and pint-sized."

What the Hell! Is this supposed to be some sort of compliment? If this is one of Mitch's friends trying to sell him as a potential presidential candidate then Daniels is screwed nationally!

Bailey continues:

On Fox News Sunday, host Chris Wallace finally asked Daniels about all of the talk about his height and looks, saying some have suggested that he doesn't "look presidential."

Daniels admitted it could be a problem "with some voters."

"I've never suggested to a voter what they should consider a valid criterion," Daniels replied. "If it comes down to height and hair, I probably wouldn't do very well. But I guess that's just something you weigh in the balance with many other factors."

In layman's terms Daniels is a sad, pathetic man who always needs to try and push others around!

In blow to Eric Holcomb's Campaign Indiana State Police Alliance Endorses John Gregg!

The Indianapolis Star's Chelsea Schneider wrote today that the Indiana State Police Alliance has endorsed Democratic Candidate for Governor John Gregg instead of the insider picked RINO Candidate Eric Holcomb! Ouch! That's got to hit Holcomb hard! Schneider reported in their article:


The political organization representing Indiana state troopers endorsed John Gregg for governor on Friday, the first Democrat the group has ever backed to become the state’s top executive.
Chief to the Indiana State Police Alliance’s support of Gregg is the belief he’ll work to raise compensation for officers, who say they have not received a significant salary increase for years.
“(Gregg has) pledged to us to work tirelessly to improve the equipment and working conditions and most importantly the compensation our troopers receive for the services they provide the citizens of Indiana,” said Wayne Flick, a member of the alliance’s political action committee, as he joined Gregg outside the Indiana Statehouse for the announcement.
The group that represents 1,100 active officers said it based its support of Gregg on the positives involved in working with the Democrat, and not on any perceived weaknesses of Lt. Gov. Eric Holcomb, the Republican candidate.
“It wasn’t anything Eric lacked,” Flick said.
Gregg, who was joined by running mate state Rep. Christina Hale, said the group’s support meant a lot. The announcement followed another law enforcement powerhouse, the Indiana Fraternal Order of Police, endorsing Gregg.
“It’s not lost on me the importance of this endorsement. We are committed to public safety and supporting law enforcement in Indiana and want to work with them as partners,” Gregg said.
State troopers received a 2 percent pay increase in 2015. But before then, the last bump had been approved in 2007, said Stephen Buschmann, the alliance's lobbyist. That has led to problems with recruitment and retention, with some officers attending the state police’s academy, but going to work for other agencies.


Officers will push for a “healthy increase” as lawmakers write a new, two-year state budget beginning in January, Flick said. He declined to offer further details Friday but said Gregg has promised to “work diligently to get what we want.” An average salary for a first-year officer is around $40,000.
“It’s not going to put us at the top but it will be close to the top with comparable agencies,” Flick said.
Holcomb's campaign said the Republican remains committed to including a salary increase for troopers in the next state budget. The increase would be "in line with the demands of their work and appropriately equipping them to carry out their daily duties."
The newest endorsement comes as a poll released earlier this month shows Gregg with a five-point lead in the governor’s race over Holcomb. The WTHR/Howey Politics Indiana poll had Gregg leading 40 percent to 35 percent. An earlier Monmouth University poll indicated a tighter race for governor, with Holcomb holding a slight 42 percent to 41 percent lead over Gregg.


Holcomb, who Gov. Mike Pence named as lieutenant governor in March, became the GOP candidate for governor in July when Pence decided to join Donald Trump’s presidential ticket.
The first  gubernatorial debate featuring Gregg, Holcomb and Libertarian candidate Rex Bell is set for Tuesday. It will focus on education policy.


Forgive INDY REPUBLICAN if we are skeptical when Wayne Flick of the Indiana State Police Alliance PAC says they "based its support of Gregg on the positives involved in working with the Democrat, and not on any perceived weaknesses of Lt. Gov. Eric Holcomb, the Republican candidate.
“It wasn’t anything Eric lacked.”


If Eric Holcomb didn't lack anything why would the State Police Alliance decide to endorse John Gregg for Governor the only Democrat for that office they have EVER endorsed? Obviously Eric Holcomb's campaign is not pleased to hear this! It's interesting that when "Godfather" Governor Mitch Daniels gutted the state civil service laws that an exemption to the ban on collective bargaining was given to the Indiana State Police and the State Police Alliance!


This is why God invented irony! Mitch Daniels and his cronies carve out an exemption to benefit themselves and the State Police Alliance throws Daniels protégé Eric Holcomb under the bus! Seriously does anybody like Eric Holcomb at all! As Republicans we hope that Holcomb get's creamed in his race for Governor! If more curveball's like this keep getting thrown at his campaign he probably will get defeated!

Gregg Recieves Indiana FOP Endorsement while Holcomb's Campaign still stuck in neutral!

In a move that will be sure to irritate the still stalled gubernatorial campaign of Eric "Bagman" Holcomb. The Indiana Fraternal Order of Police has endorsed the gubernatorial campaign of Democrat John Gregg. OUCH! This combined with Holcomb's p!@s poor fundraising to date has caused us here at Indy Republican to wash our hands of the Holcomb ticket! Indy Republican's staff has convened and we have by overwhelming vote decided to not endorse any candidate for Governor this year! We reached this decision after having examined each candidate and found them wanting. All of us here as life-long Republicans have determined that no candidate now running for Governor is representative of the true principles of Republicanism we hold dear. The principles being free speech, limited government, and government transparency. By pledging to campaign on the record of faux conservative Mike Pence. Eric Holcomb has shown no willingness to make lawmakers emails open to the public. This coupled with his disgraceful conduct in his 2000 run for the state house, his part in costing Congressman John Hostettler his office in 2006, and his bullying ways as state chairman could explain in part why a man who was for several years the Chairman of the Indiana Republican Party is not getting much love on the campaign trail! Our advice to all Republican activists and voters is do not lift a finger to help Holcomb. This man was forced on us as the GOP standard bearer by party insiders. We the people were not consulted about this. Those of us who have worked hard for the Republican Party have been told we are not important. That is reason enough to not assist the party bosses by helping Holcomb become our next Governor!

UPDATE: An alert reader made us aware that the Indiana FOP endorsed John Gregg in 2012 and backed Mitch Daniels in 2008. One would have thought that Holcomb being a close Daniels lackey and sycophant would have been able to get the FOP's support!

Hoosier Lottery Contractor Finally Meets it's Goals after three years! Or More Pain for the Taxpayers from former Govenor Mitch "Little Man Hack" Daniels

In an article that appeared on the Indianapolis Business Journal's website in June. Hayleigh Colombo wrote how for the first time IGT Indiana (formerly GTECH Indiana) will meet its contractually obligated goals at managing the Indiana Lottery. Colombo goes onto say that it is "largely because the goals are lower than they used to be." In June 2015 the Hoosier Lottery Commission changed it's contract with IGT which reduced the revenue goals the company set when it originally bid to takeover management of the state lottery in 2012. As originally agreed IGT would have had to meet a revenue goal of $365 Million as opposed to the $270 Million target they have to reach now. We here at INDY REPUBLICAN are asking the question if IGT has not been able to meet their revenue targets from 2013 to 2015. And the company has had to keep making penalty payments to the state for the years they failed to meet the target. Why renegotiate the contract to make it easier for IGT to hit their target? Why not just fire them altogether? Remember folks when IGT signed the deal in 2012 to take over management of the Hoosier Lottery they agreed to make $365 Million in net income for the state or make penalty payments to the state. So one would think that IGT should have thought they were capable of making those original obligations. If IGT didn't think so then they should have either negotiated a better deal in 2012 or better yet not sign the contract at all! Isn't it interesting that this deal was inked during the time of Governor "Godfather" Mitch Daniels! Of course you won't hear or see any of the Indianapolis Press calling Mitch out on this! Like Matt Tully and the rest of the Circle Jerk Club they are to busy selling their souls to do their jobs! Let's all just keep ratcheting the pressure up until the Republicrat Establishment is smashed in Indianapolis!

Hoosier Republican Chaos! Mitch Daniels passes on Governors Race, Mike Pence is Trump's VP Pick! Madness! It's Madness we say!

It is great to be back and to be blogging about the political scene and bringing you perspectives that the Indianapolis Press and Pundits will not! The staff at INDY REPUBLICAN would like to thank fellow bloggers Paul Ogden and Jon Easter for kindly linking to this blog on their blog homepages. Gentleman it is indeed a pleasure for all of us here to be in your company! As most of you probably know by now last week Republican Presidential Nominee Donald Trump chose our very own Governor Mike "Pampered" Pence to be his Vice Presidential Candidate. As previously reported on this blog here and here. Since Governor Pence has agreed to run for Vice President. He has as required by Indiana Law withdrawn his name as a candidate for Governor in the fall. The 22 Member Indiana Republican State Central Committee will have to convene and pick a replacement candidate to put on the ballot in Pence's place. The candidates who have submitted their names are Lt. Governor Eric Holcomb, Congresswoman Susan Brooks, Congressmen and former Indiana Secretary of State Todd Rokita and State Sen. Jim Tomes. Former Governor Mitch Daniels was considered by some this blog's staff included as a possible candidate to appear on the ballot instead of Mike Pence. Last Thursday WISH-TV reported on their website that Mitch Daniels would not seek a new term as Governor.  Here is the text of Mitch Daniels statement to the press about his decision not to seek the Governor's office. As well as our commentary highlighted in bold in between the sections of Daniels statement:

“Ordinarily, it’s neither necessary nor good practice to comment on hypothetical questions.  But this year and the current political situation in Indiana is extraordinary to say the least. So I think it is appropriate that I make plain today that, should there be a sudden need to name a new nominee for governor, I will not present myself as a candidate nor would I accept the nomination if offered.

Over the last few days, I have been importuned to do so by a large number and wide variety of people I respect deeply.  They include those now on the Indiana Republican ticket, those responsible nationally for supporting both gubernatorial and Senatorial campaigns, and a host of Hoosier citizens, many of whom I know and many more I was hearing from for the first time.  An apparent majority of the Republican State Committee has offered its support, as have several of the good people who will now become candidates if the vacancy does in fact occur.


I told each such person that I was highly unlikely to return to elective politics, but that out of respect for them I would take a couple days to reflect on their appeal. We had all been led to believe that we would know by now if a new nominee would actually be needed, but as that has not happened I think it best to make my decision known now.


I told the people of our state repeatedly that I believe in citizen service, and that if hired as governor I would give the job my full attention and best effort and then return to private life. I told the people of Purdue that I would fulfill wholeheartedly the duties of this post, a commitment I reaffirmed in accepting an extended contract just a year ago. I was raised to live up to commitments and not to leave tasks incomplete.


My reasons for this decision are entirely positive. I love Purdue, its students, staff, and alumni. I believe that good things are occurring at our university and am enthusiastic about pursuing them further.  It does matter immensely to me that Indiana’s strong progress over the last decade continue. Just this week, CNBC named ours the #1 infrastructure in the nation, and reaffirmed our top status for economic investment.  I hope that whoever leads us for the next four years will succeed in extending these and so many other gains, and in building our new reputation as an innovative, vanguard state.  I’ll try to see that Purdue, and I personally if asked to do so, play a role in that success.”






Here are our thoughts. Does Daniels honestly expect us to believe that the reason he chose to take a few days to reflect on if he would change his mind to run for Governor was out of respect for the GOP Elites before firmly saying no? Why? Was he afraid he would hurt their feelings? Why would he intentionally keep an already tense situation for the State GOP even more stressful?

Dave Bangert in an article posted on The Indianapolis Star's website on July 14th goes into a little more detail about Daniels decision not to seek his old job back. Mr. Bangert pointed out that: "Daniels said he was committed to Purdue, which a year ago offered him a contract extension that runs into 2020. Daniels stands to make a combined $1 million in retention bonuses if he stays at Purdue through then, according to that contract." Could the retention bonuses be a factor in Daniels decision not to seek the Governor's Office?


Mike Berghoff, chairman of the Purdue Board of Trustees, said he spent time with Daniels this week for long-standing business “while all the chatter was going on.” Berghoff said he trusted that Daniels understood that trustees believed he was doing good work at the university. Of Course Mike Berghoff is going to say that Daniels is doing a good job as Purdue University President seeing as Daniels appointed him to the Purdue Board of Trustee's!


As for the fate of the "Draft Mitch" website that had been launched by Enterprise Republicans a Phoney Republican group started by former CEO and Daniels 2004 Campaign Manager Bill Oesterle and Megan Robertson. Bangert had this to say:
By lunchtime Thursday (July 14th), the “Draft Mitch” site had been stripped of its petition and fundraising links that had been there a day earlier.
Oesterle did not immediately respond to calls Thursday. But Megan Robertson, executive director of Enterprise Republicans, said the organization wanted to reinforce the idea that Daniels would have solid support for an encore in the governor’s office.
“We obviously respect his decision, but we still have a lot of admiration and respect for what he did as governor and would like to see him serve our state or our country at a different time, when he’s ready,” Robertson said. “And when he’s ready, we’ll be here, ready to draft him again.”

INDY REPUBLICAN will return shortly to the subject of the Mitch Daniels nonexistent 2016 campaign for Governor in a minute. All of us here felt that some background information about Bill Oesterle and Megan Robertson of Enterprise Republicans was in order. In light of the role they played in the "Draft Mitch" movement. Once again our readers since the Indianapolis Press seem unable and unwilling to do any real investigative work into the powers that be in Indiana we will again turn to the pen of the Master himself Gary Welsh.


Regarding Ms. Robertson Mr. Welsh wrote on his blog in January 2015 about how Robertson was busted for OWI on Christmas Eve 2014. Gary Welsh also pointed out another fact that should anger all real Hoosier Republicans in that "Robertson managed Mayor Greg Ballard's re-election campaign". Her association with Greg Ballard is enough to make any honest Hoosier leery of anything that Megan Robertson is involved with!


Now for information about the Big "O" himself. Bill Oesterle the man behind the "Draft Mitch" movement. In sharp contrast to how the Star and other Indianapolis media outlet's portray Angie's List and Bill Oesterle's business skills. Mr. Welsh shared some of what he heard about Bill on his blog back in April 2015:


I'll give you a taste of what I hear about the Bill Oesterle-run Angie's List. Here's the latest from Advance Indiana's mailbag:

How about the Angie's List company bus trip to Cincinnati for a Reds game? The place shuts down and everyone goes along for the beer-infused trip down, the game, and the return home. Part of the ritual forces females walking down the bus aisle to be groped and fondled by any and all. Yes, even company officials participated.

Then there was the "soap box derby" races in the parking lot.

All the while [Company Official] is carrying one with a very, very young employee. So young that other notices how hard she has fitting in with all the carrying on. After the divorce and remarriage, [Company Official] steps aside from Angie's sexual harassment committee . . . 

Just a fun place to work. No wonder it is filled with unemployable and unemployed Republicans. 

Which is more accurate? Tully's press releases masquerading as serious political columns or the Advance Indiana mailbag?


Mr. Welsh was of course referring to another in what to this day continues to be a never-ending chain of press releases for Bill Oesterle and Mitch Daniels spewing out of the Langley Dominated Indianapolis Star! Now returning to the subject of Mitch Daniels and the campaign that never was. Their are some questions that should be asked. Such as: Why didn't Daniels specifically ask Oesterle not to start a "Draft Mitch" campaign. If he knew he most likely wasn't going to run? Or are we supposed to believe that Daniels was just being a dick to his fellow Republicans all so he could hype himself? Even though doing so would merely serve to undermine Republicans chances at holding onto the Governor's office? Also why is nobody in the press asking any questions about why so many troublesome characters are associated with Mitch Daniels? If we were in his position we would run as far away from Bill and Megan as we could!


The Indianapolis Business Journal's Max Gabovitch & Hayleigh Colombo writing after the Pence pick talked about the GOP ballot confusion that has now occurred because Pence will be withdrawing from the Governor's race:


Complicating the process: A noon Friday deadline for all candidates to voluntarily withdraw from the races they’re now in. Without doing so, they won’t be eligible to be appointed to the ballot in any other race, said Dale Simmons, co-legal counsel for Indiana Election Division.


Gabovitch & Colombo quote Bill Oesterle when asked about how this affects the Governor's race now that Pence has withdrawn and Daniels will not run for reelection for Governor:


The Friday deadline “is going to make it really complicated for everybody,” said Bill Oesterle, the former Angie’s List CEO who had hoped Gov. Mitch Daniels, now the Purdue University president, would run if Pence was selected.
Daniels said Thursday morning he would not run.
“Decisions are going to be made very quickly,” Oesterle said. “We’re just hoping everybody’s aware of that. It’s going to be a mess.”


The process for replacing Mike Pence is even more confusing because: "Following Pence's withdrawal, the 22-member Republican State Central Committee would have 30 days to choose who would run for governor in his place. They are also required to give 10 days notice of that caucus.
But the more time that process takes, the less time their chosen candidate has to run a full-fledged campaign against Democrat John Gregg."


Also cited is well know Indiana political commentator Ed Feigenbaum:
 “There are going to be 22-people making the decision,” Feigenbaum said. “It’s not the party staff or Mike Pence or the congressional delegation.”


Picking Pence's Ballot Replacement is not just a problem for the Republican State Central Commitee but also an issue for current office holders who wish to run for Governor:


Daniels would likely have cleared the field if he had jumped in the race. That’s why he made clear Thursday he’s out.
Regardless, other candidates will have to make decisions within hours.
Oesterle said the process is particularly stressful for sitting members of Congress and state elected officials who would like the state’s top job.
Those potential replacements would have to withdraw from their current re-election bids by the noon deadline on Friday in order to be eligible to run for governor, creating more turmoil down the ballot.
“By noon Friday they’re going to give up a seat in order to be considered, which is just complicated,” Oesterle said. “That’s just risky.”
The vacancies that they would then leave on the ballot would be filled by the Republican precinct committee people in their districts. Those not chosen by the Central Committee could then be re-appointed to the ballots in their original races. But it all must happen in a 30-day window of the withdrawals.


So the long and the short of it folks is that we will have to wait at least another week or more until we know who the Republicans will even have running for Governor! As life-long Republicans ourselves at this blog this whole process is utter nonsense! Every vote cast in the GOP Primary for Governor has just been declared null and void! If the Indiana Republican Party wishes to live up to the true principles of Republicanism such as free speech, limited government, and decentralization of political power this year in Indiana they are doing a lousy job of it!


UPDATE:


This just in IBJ and the Associated Press are reporting that Governor Mike Pence has endorsed his Lt. Governor Eric Holcomb to succeed him as Governor on the November ballot.
In a statement to the members of the Indiana Republican State Central Committee Governor Pence has this to say about his endorsement of Eric Holcomb:

July 22, 2016 Members of the Indiana Republican State Committee: Today concludes a truly unforgettable week for my family and for the Indiana Republican Party. Karen and I are humbled by your prayers and well wishes; my selection as nominee for Vice President is a reflection of the hard work and success of the Hoosier State, and specifically twelve years of strong Republican leadership at the state level. You all have played a vital role in supporting that movement, and are owed a debt of gratitude. I am honored to serve as your Governor, and taking on this challenge results in making a difficult decision not to run for re-election. Together we have achieved a great deal in improving the lives of Hoosiers, and I am confident that we will be leaving this office with our state as prosperous as any time in our state’s history. To continue our momentum, it is imperative that we build upon twelve years of progress, innovation and success by selecting a proven leader and dedicated public servant. Fortunately, you are blessed to have several fine choices to continue our proud legacy. As members of the Indiana Republican State Committee, you are tasked with a historic duty, one in which I know you are approaching with a discerning heart. Your decision will have a major impact in charting a path for the future of our state and ensuring we continue our momentum as a national leader in job growth, economic development, and sound fiscal management. This decision is yours alone, and I will respect that decision and support the nominee you deem fit to serve. Over the past week, Hoosiers have had an opportunity to weigh in and offer their recommendations on who they feel is best fit to lead our party on the ballot and in the statehouse. While the choice you face is difficult, it displays the depth of talent the Indiana Republican Party has produced over the past decade, with sterling public servants at the federal and state levels. I have served with these fine Hoosiers and they are the embodiment of servant leadership. However, as I prayerfully considered the group offering themselves to succeed me, I concluded that I made my choice several months ago. When selecting my Lt. Governor in March, the primary factor was who would be able to best serve the State of Indiana in the event I could no longer perform my duties as Governor. As I concluded before, there is no better individual to lead our State than Eric Holcomb. When I asked Eric to take on this vitally important constitutional role, once again he answered the call. I’ve known Eric Holcomb for more than twenty years, and I believe he is one of the best prepared individuals in recent memory to take on the job of Governor. His range of service to our State and our Nation makes him uniquely qualified to fill this role. A lifelong Hoosier, Eric followed his studies at Hanover College by putting on the uniform of the United States Navy. He served a variety of roles for Governor Mitch Daniels as a senior member instrumental in his election in 2004, and running a re-election effort that resulted in a historic landslide victory. As Deputy Chief of Staff, Eric was a key member of a group that transformed state government and set our State on a new course that cut taxes, balanced budgets, and ushered in groundbreaking education reform. Later, he earned the respect and acclaim of this group as Chairman of the Indiana Republican Party, and was a trusted advisor that helped ensure my election in 2012. Senator Dan Coats tapped Eric to lend his considerable talent as Chief of Staff and served with distinction. And, now he serves as my closest confident, partner and friend. Eric instantly hit the ground running as Lt. Governor, traveling the State and providing value in areas of agriculture, community and rural affairs, and economic development, among many others. He showed a great range of policy expertise and Hoosiers were able to witness firsthand that Eric is ready to govern on Day one. As Karen and I embark on a mission to restore strong Republican leadership to our nation, I do so with optimism about the boundless future of Indiana, and I wholeheartedly endorse Lt. Governor Eric Holcomb to serve as the Republican nominee for Governor of Indiana in the upcoming election. I would be grateful if you would consider doing the same. Eric will put together a robust campaign utilizing decades of valuable experience in all 92 counties, and I look forward to supporting his efforts in continuing the progress that we all have worked so hard to achieve. As I serve out the remainder of my term as Governor, please know how grateful Karen and I will always be for your support and prayers throughout our career. While I am deeply humbled to have the opportunity to run as the Republican nominee for Vice President of the United States, our hearts will always be back home again in Indiana. Thank you for your service to our party and state. Sincerely, Michael R. Pence Governor of Indiana Congresswoman Susan Brooks another candidate to replace Pence on the ballot for Governor had this to say about Pence's Endorsement of Eric Holcomb: “I appreciate that the Governor is in a tough position knowing how close he and Eric Holcomb have become. I have known the governor for over 30 years and I know him to be very loyal. But this endorsement doesn’t change my focus. It is clear the 22 State Committee members take their responsibility for making this historic decision very seriously, and I appreciate Governor Pence’s acknowledgement that the decision lies alone with them and that he will support the nominee they choose. I am confident I am the strongest candidate to beat John Gregg in the Fall, and I will continue my efforts to demonstrate that to the committee.”

It is times like these that Gary Welsh is missed the most! Some may wonder if Gary had a crystal ball and could see the future to some extent. About three months before his unfortunate demise. Welsh wrote a post entitled "A Quid Pro Quo Endorsed By The Indiana Media". In that post Welsh includes some insightful and also a humorous look with the assistance of former Indiana Secretary of State Charlie White on the decision to pick Holcomb as Lt. Governor to Mike Pence:

Four years ago, Mike Pence picked a Democrat, Sue Ellspermann, to be his running mate. The two never really thought much of the other and Pence had to find a way to "ditch the bitch" so he had his politically-appointed trustees at Ivy Tech tell its president, Tom Snyder, that he had to resign so he would have a job to allow Ellspermann to go quietly from the State House without throwing stones at him on the way out.

The Mitch Daniels' cronies, were waging war on Pence because he was only letting them make 98% of the decisions regarding Indiana state government rather than the 100% they demanded. They threatened to run one of Mitch's bitches against him in the primary before settling on the appointment of Eric Holcomb to take Ellspermann's old job, primarily as a way to block Marlin Stutzman from getting the Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate by Holcomb dropping out of the Senate race. If Pence is found unresponsive, lying on his back in a hotel room closet like former Gov. Frank O'Bannon in the coming months, well, these things just happen. Holcomb, by the way, was one of those guys trashing Pence behind his back to the media for his handling of RFRA and other issues. Why does Pence think the media likes Holcomb so much?

It goes without saying the State House media couldn't be happier. The Indianapolis Star declared Holcomb, who was defeated in the only election where he previously faced voters, "a seasoned political operative with a lot of cache among Republicans--someone who could help the governor bridge a gap between social conservatives and business-oriented Republicans." The Star should have added that he has the sinister, dark circles under his eyes as proof of the skulduggery he's capable of accomplishing behind the scenes.

Charlie White went onto provide as Gary Welsh and those of us at INDY REPUBLICAN believe to be an accurate description of what actually went on with the decision to pick Holcomb as Pence's LG:

Bill Oesterle tweeted that he felt Eric Holcomb had sold him out by agreeing to serve as Lt. Governor to Mike Pence. Since in 2015 Holcomb was part of Oesterle's group that was going after Pence for signing Indiana's Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA). We cannot help but to note the irony of Oesterle feeling betrayed by anyone in light of his many documented ethics issues of his own! So in the interest of leaving all of you out there with something to ponder. Here are Bill's tweets about Holcomb:

 Bill Oesterle‏@billo317 Feb 9

My friend Eric Holcomb has let ambition distract him from his principles. Sad day for me.

 Bill Oesterle‏@billo317 Feb 9

Eric said Pence, "Set the right tone" on lgbt issues. To me, he has been blisteringly critical of Pence's handling.

 Bill Oesterle‏@billo317 Feb 9

Expediency is not a sound strategy.

      

Tim Swarens and Matt Tully's Puff Pieces for Mike Pence Show Why The Indianapolis Star Cannot be Saved!

The staff has decided to take a break from the Trump Veep Stakes Melodrama. Instead we wanted to take a hard look at how The Indianapolis Star's Propaganda Minister's Leading Political Writer's Tim Swarens and Matt "Ass Kisser" Tully spin report the news. Tim Swarens article in yesterday's Star "It's a win-win-win for Mike Pence". Timmy Boy is referring to all the media attention our fake conservative Governor Mike Pence has received as a result as his being considered a possible Vice Presidential candidate for Donald Trump. Swarens writes:


"One thing that seems certain is that Mike Pence will emerge as a political winner after his weeks-long flirtation with national prominence, regardless of whatever Trump announces in the next 48 hours."


Our initial reactions to this boneheaded statement are varied. Mostly we are wondering if Swarens is from Mars. Secondly, we hope the Star does not allow Timmy to handle any sharp objects! In what way is Pence going to emerge a winner?


Swarens goes onto say: "The fact that Pence is being pitched as the calm counterbalance to Trump--the adult in the room--also doesn't hurt his long-term prospects back home in Indiana and elsewhere."


With all due respect to Tim Swarens a charging rhino would appear more like an adult than Donald Trump! That is a very low hurdle to clear! Pence isn't exactly a saint for managing to act more mature than Donald Trump!


"I the governor is the pick and if Trump does win in November, then Pence naturally steps into the role of ambassador to Congress. Pence is only four years removed from 12 years on Capitol Hill, and he still has many friends in Congress, especially in the Republican caucuses."


So former US House Speaker Newt had more experience and connections in Congress then Pence did why not pick him instead?


Swarens predicts that if Mike Pence is picked to run with Trump and Trump loses that: "The governor still has a good chance to emerge as a winner, as long as Trump isn't trounced in a Walter Mondale-type landslide. In the wake of a Hillary Clinton victory, a bruised GOP establishment would be searching for ways to hold on to the new and disaffected voters that Trump has inspired. Pence could position himself, with Trump's blessing, as the bridge between the old Republican tribe and the new."


If Trump picks Pence and the ticket loses the Presidential Race this year. Both Trump and Pence's political careers are toast! The GOP after losing the White House to Hillary Clinton will run away from Trump. And if Pence is lucky he becomes an answer to a Trivial Pursuit question! Losing VP Candidates almost always fare worse than losing Presidential candidates do. Who remembers who Adlai Stevenson's running mates where in 1952 and 1956 when he ran against Eisenhower? Or how many people remember that Henry Cabot Lodge ran on the ticket with Nixon when he narrowly lost the White House in 1960? Yes it's true Mitt Romney's running mate Congressman Paul Ryan is the Speaker of the House but Ryan ran for both his House seat and VP at the same time and won his House race. If a Trump-Pence ticket loses Pence has no elected office to return to! His old congressional seat is held by another Republican, and he is not well placed to run for either the Senate in 2018 against Joe Donnelly or for Governor again!


"Finally," Swarens writes "if Trump ultimately says, "Sorry, Mike, but I love my Newt," then Pence is still a winner. He's likely helped himself in what's expected to be a close governor's race not only because of all the media attention but also because he was embraced by his party's popular in Indiana nominee before several thousand voters in Hamilton County."


If Trump does not pick Pence the Democrats will attack him relentlessly for trying to ditch his job as Governor to be Vice President!


"John Gregg, meanwhile, fades deeper into the shadows cast not only by Pence's dance in the spotlight but also Evan Bayh's sudden realization that he really does love serving in the U.S. Senate. (What does Poor John have to do to earn a bit of attention around here?)


"So no matter what thoughts about a running mate are ruminating in the mind of Donald Trump, Pence has likely helped himself considerably on the political front by agreeing to audition for a promotion."


"Count it as a rare win-win-win for Mike Pence. A sitting governor struggling to win re-election less than a month ago is on a political roll today."


John Gregg has been out campaigning endlessly for governor! He has been hitting the County Fairs and having frequent ads up. Yes he has received less coverage during the Pence and Bayh incidents this past week or so. But he has hardly been invisible!


For more salivating over Pence here is more mindless rubbish from Ass Kisser Matt Tully. Tully focuses more on Pence's potential as a VP candidate in contrast to Tim Swarens who just lavishes unwarranted praise on Mike Pence for being part of Trump's VP Audition.


Tully talks about Pence's Tuesday night speech in Westfield at a Donald Trump fundraiser. He quotes Pence as saying: "Donald Trump knows that we can make America great again," "Hillary Clinton must never become the president of the United States of America," "It would be extremely careless to elect Hillary Clinton."


What else did Tully think Pence was going to say about Hillary Clinton? It is not that different at all from what other Republicans like Newt Gingrich or Chris Christie have been saying about her! Why does this make Pence any more well suited to be VP than Gingrich or Christie?


Tully next quotes from Donald as saying "Who the hell knows?" Regarding Pence being his VP Choice. More from Tully's pen: "Pence certainly didn't hurt humself and he will be the guy if Trump is looking for a second banana who won't attempt to upstage him, who will seemingly do and say exactly as told, and whose calm demeanor will provide balance to a fiery ticket."


Who does Tully think could possibly be able to upstage Donald Trump at this time? If Houdini rose from the dead on national television tomorrow he wouldn't get as much attention as Trump has! It is highly doubtful that anybody thinks that whoever gets picked Donald's running mate is going to even come close to upstaging him!


"Can Pence perform in the role of running mate? It appears he can. Can he play the attack role of so many running mates past? Well, not as well as some for whom that comes naturally, but he can do it. Does he help the ticket? I'm not sure."


Earth to Tully: After Pence totally bungled the RFRA and Just In issues what is there to show that he would handle the national spotlight better? Especially since he will have reporters prodding him and poking him, and looking into his background unlike anything he has went through before!


" Pence is a key member of the religious and socially conservative political right."


True he was in the past. But Tully obviously has been in a coma for the last decade and has failed to notice religious and social conservatives irritation at Pence over his back tracking on RFRA, his support of Common Core Lite, etc. These issues will come out in a national campaign! The Democratic Party no doubt already has reams of opposition research they are willing to unload on Pence in order to cause the Trump ticket as much trouble as possible!


Tully's last observation that we wish to share with you is: "Funny thing is, even in the middle of Indiana, most of the Trump supporters I (Matt Tully) spoke with Tuesday night said they hoped Trump would pick as his running mate not their home state's governor but rather Gingrich the former Speaker of the U.S. House."


Again Tully if many Hoosier Republicans don't want Pence to run for VP why would the voters throughout the rest of the country see any reason to want Pence on the Trump ticket at all?


As all of you can see after going through all the silliness that passes for thoughtful writing at The Indianapolis Star. It is no surprise that the paper is losing readers and it is only a matter of time until it ceases to exist all together. If Dick Cady happens across this we only hope that he is happy that he is no longer employed by the useless rag his former employer has become!




UPDATE: According to various news reports Donald Trump is expected to announce tomorrow at 11 AM that Governor Mike Pence will be his running mate. WISH-TV has a story about that on it's website at this time click here. Also WISH-TV is reporting that earlier today that former Indiana Governor and current Purdue University President Mitch Daniels has issued a statement saying that he is not going to run for Governor if that job should become open you can read about that here.


The John Gregg for Governor Campaign also chimed in about Pence likely being picked to run for Vice President in a fundraising email sent out earlier this evening by the Gregg Campaign they had this to say:


"The headlines say Governor Pence is Trump's VP pick. But Trump's campaign refuses to confirm.

Either way, we need to be ready.

If Pence isn't chosen, it's up to us to end his time as governor. And if he is chosen, we need to show all potential challengers that we're more than ready to take them on.

These back-and-forth rumors are a distraction from what's really important: We must keep fighting to build a better future for Indiana.

Governor Pence may be in the headlines now, but by chipping in right away, you can make sure that the big news in Indiana is a John Gregg win in November.

Thanks,

Jeff Harris
Communications Director
Gregg for Governor"

INDY REPUBLICAN is still slightly skeptical of Pence having been picked as VP for Trump. Even though he has flown out to New Jersey where Trump is supposed to announce his running mate tomorrow. Trump through out the primaries and to this day has shown himself to be very unpredictable and this may all still be a publicity stunt of some kind. The Gregg campaign is wise to keep the focus on Indiana and the race for Governor. Even if Pence does run for VP it maybe near a month until the voters know who the new Republican Candidate for Governor will be. During that time Gregg can keep his name in the news, promote his plans as Governor and expand his volunteer base. We at the INDY REPUBLICAN news desk wouldn't be surprised if Gregg uses this time to keep building up his profile and Campaign infrastructure. Whoever the Republican Candidate for Governor turns out to be will have to get a state wide campaign up and running very quickly!

To Be VP or not? The Ongoing Soap Opera Called Mike Pence

Hello Everyone! The staff here at INDY REPUBLICAN hopes you all had a safe and happy Fourth of July! The staff wanted to write this post yesterday. But then  decided to wait till today to see if anything unfolded on the possibility of Mike Pence running for the hills becoming Donald Trump's Vice Presidential Candidate. Brian Eason wrote a column in the Indianapolis Star yesterday that says that Pence would have to abandon his race for Governor as State law does not allow him to run for both Vice President and Governor in the same election. Eason also points out that the Indiana Republican Party only has until July 15th to pick a replacement for Pence on the November ballot for governor. Governor Pence met with Donald Trump in New Jersey over the weekend. WISH TV's website has a page where Jim "Shill" Shella says the two most likely candidates to replace Pence would be Lt. Governor Eric Holcomb and Indiana House Speaker Brian Bosma. Eason claims in his article that Pence would help Trump out with social conservatives who have not been warming up so far to Trump's impending presidential nomination. This has the staff here asking the question "What Planet Does Brian Eason Live On?" Is Eason seriously unaware of how unpopular Pence has become with voters all over the political spectrum in Indiana! According to Marc Lotter a spokesman for the Pence campaign Eason quotes Lotter as saying: "They (Pence and Trump) talked about policies that are working in Indiana and the future of this country." Lotter also added at the meeting that "Nothing was offered during the meeting, and nothing was accepted."


We will be get back to the speculating about Pence and Trump shortly. The staff felt obligated to share information about Pence's spokesman Marc Lotter that was sent to us by one of our readers. Longtime readers of Gary Welsh's Blog Advance Indiana may remember this post that he did on Marc Lotter back in 2014. In the post Gary Welsh said of Marc Lotter that whenever he "opens his mouth there's a good chance he is lying since the ability to lie seems to be the principle attribute of most spokespersons for politicians." Our reader direct our attention to Lotter's LinkedIn profile. His profile lists among his past positions having been Indiana Communications Director for John McCain's 2008 Presidential Campaign. Which went onto be the first Republican Presidential Campaign to lose Indiana since 1964. He is also listed as having been Communications Director for Indianapolis's Former Fake Republican Mayor Greg Ballard from 2010 to 2015. And he has been employed as Deputy Campaign Manager for Mike Pence since May of this year.


Several things come to mind in light of the above mentioned facts about Marc Lotter. Such as Why in the world would Pence hire a man to run his reelection campaign when he totally screwed up royal with the only other campaign he has had any high profile position with? Also if you want to shore up your support among Indiana Republicans why pick a man who served as a Spin Doctor for Greg Ballard who is not very well liked by many Republicans?  And as for Pence's campaign management why didn't Lotter tell Pence not to meet with Trump at all? As Jon Easter points out in a very well written post Pence in no way benefits from any association with Donald Trump at all! Paul Ogden also has written well of the pitfalls that Pence has when dealing with Donald Trump.


Since Trump is supposed to be coming back to Indiana on July 12th for a campaign fundraiser that may very well turn out to be zero hour for Donald Trump and Mike Pence to make whatever decisions they are going to make. July 12th also would be a good day for decision making on Trump and Pence's part since according to Astrologer Leah Whitehorse's Forecast for this month:


The First Quarter Moon in Libra on the 12th July is the first test since the New Moon. After leaving the safety of the Sun in Cancer, it’s now necessary to work closely with others to find your balance. Maybe you’re negotiating for a better deal or trying to smooth out problems. With the Moon now square to Pluto and opposing Uranus, it might not feel easy to hold your own when placed under pressure but it is possible. Thankfully, the mood lifts with Venus skipping into Leo also on the 12th July where we’re now more willing to risk our hearts. This creative transit eases tensions and encourages you to express your feelings. We are generous with our love under this sign but tend to call it quits quickly if our heart’s just not in it. We all need to feel treated like royalty sometimes so a lack of attention now can really hurt.

So if Leah is correct and none of the staff here believes in astrology. With Venus's skipping into Leo on July 12th both men might be willing to take some risks. But she warns a lack of attention to either person at that time may really hurt. Just some helpful ideas for Mike and Donald to ponder over. We had thought of checking to see what the Star's Matt Tully had to say about all this. But decided their was no need to induce vomiting in ourselves at this time by reading the drivel that man puts to paper!


To wrap things up Eric Holcomb and Brian "Candyman" Bosma having been thrown out as potential replacements for Pence. The staff felt like throwing out both our least favorite candidates to replace Mike Pence. None of us want's to see either former Governor Mitch Daniels, former Angie's List CEO Bill Oesterle get picked.  INDY REPUBLICAN would be absolutely giddy if either Paul Ogden, Charlie White or Christine Scales was chosen to run for Governor in Pence's place. That's all for now. If anyone out there has any tips, suggestions, or items of interest please contact us via our comments section. That's a wrap!


UPDATE: Iowa Republican Senator Joni Ernst has withdrawn as a potential candidate for Vice President according to this article by Politico.com. Senator Ernst appears to have endorsed Mike Pence for VP! Let the Games Begin!

UPDATE: It appears John Gregg the Democratic Candidate for Governor has chimed in about Pampered Pence's meeting with Donald Trump. Another INDY REPUBLICAN reader has alerted us to a fundraising email that the Gregg campaign has sent out seeking to make hay over the whole Pence Soap Opera: "Once again, Pence is putting his own ideology and ambition ahead of his commitment to Hoosier families -- all for a shot at joining a sideshow act like Donald Trump's campaign.

We don't yet know if he'll get the nod from Trump, but one thing is clearer than ever: We have to fire Governor Pence. 

Hoosier families are struggling to make ends meet. Jobs are being shipped out of the country, incomes are lagging behind the rest of the country, and our kids aren't getting the education they deserve.

But instead of hunkering down and trying to fix the problems we face, Governor Pence is too busy interviewing for his next job.

Hoosiers deserve better than a part-time governor -- and we certainly don't need Donald Trump's next apprentice in the governor's mansion.

Thanks for your support,

Tim Henderson
Campaign Manager
Gregg for Governor"

This just goes to further point out just how inept Mike Pence's reelection campaign is being run. He gained nothing by agreeing to meet with Donald Trump. Anti-Trump Republicans in Indiana will become even more angry at Pence for even speaking to Trump. Many will rightfully question his sincerity behind his feeble endorsement of Ted Cruz in the May Primary. Pro-Trump Republicans will not warm to Pence either and view him as a simple opportunist. The only side that has gained by all this is the Gregg Campaign which is making good use of this PR fumble by Pence and his team. Again why didn't Marc Lotter simply tell Pence not to agree to this obviously stupid meeting with Donald Trump? We hear rumors that even the Gregg Campaign is surprised by Pence's lack of Campaign Skills! There is almost no sport in running against Pence this time around! To reiterate INDY REPUBLICAN refuses to support any of the Gubernatorial Candidates this year in Indiana. In fact as far as the Governor's Race goes we suggest that everyone leave that spot blank on their ballot! We stand by this unless Pence is replaced on the ticket by either Indiana's Favorite Son Paul Ogden or by the only real person of merit to serve as Indiana Secretary of State this Century Charlie White!

Will Trump Pick Mike Pence to be Vice President? Or how Mitch Daniels might worm his way back to being Governor!

Hello to all of you out there in cyberspace. The staff at Indy Republican wishes all of you out there a Happy Independence Day this coming Monday. Now that the pleasantries are out of the way let's get down to business. An alert reader of Indy Republican was gracious enough to pass on this little tidbit about Governor Mike "Pampered" Pence being under consideration to be running mate for presumptive Republican Presidential nominee Donald Trump.  The article by NBC News states that Mike Pence is "in play" to be a possible VP pick for Donald Trump. Some readers of this blog may recall Pence's tepid endorsement of Ted Cruz for President back in the Indiana GOP Primary in May. A move that as Gary Welsh in what would be his next to last blog post said would do nothing but alienate even more Indiana Republican's who are already dissatisfied with Pence.


Sources have told the staff here that if Mike Pence is selected they believe that former RINO Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels might be put on the ticket as Governor since current Lt. Governor and former Indiana Republican Party Chairman Eric Holcomb couldn't win election against a trained Monkey! Holcomb was put on the ticket when his predecessor Democrat Sue Ellsperman decided to leave the ticket to become president of Ivy Tech State College. Holcomb was originally running poorly in the Senate GOP Primary and was on track to lose big. When all of a sudden he was offered the post as Lieutenant Governor in a move that has continued to anger many Conservative Hoosier Republicans including the Indy Republican News Desk. Real Hoosier Republicans like Gary Welsh and Paul Ogden also criticized the selection of Holcomb as LG. Gary Welsh went as far as to compare Mike Pence with former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich! Paul Ogden flawlessly pointed out the misgivings that many Hossiers should have about Holcomb. Also Indy Republican wrote about Holcomb in a previous blog post which mostly dealt with Mike Pence's betrayal of conservative principles.




Obviously we will not know for awhile yet if Pence is picked as Trump's running mate. It will be even longer before we will see if Mitch Daniels is put on the ticket in order to run for Governor again. But one thing we can all be certain of is that the Corrupt Indianapolis Talk Heads such as Jennifer Wagner, Jim "Shill" Shella and Matt Tully and his Circle Jerk Club will all ignore the obvious duplicity that such a thing would entail and would just praise the return of their beloved "Godfather" Governor Mitch Daniels! Why so many Indiana Republicans and Democrats worship Mitch Daniels is a mystery to many! There is are the issue's that occurred under him at the IURC, FSSA, the Hoosier Lottery, BMV, DWD, the Major Moves debacle, and also his living in Hamilton County instead of Marion as he was required by law to at under the Indiana Constitution! The best thing that can be done now is that all Hoosiers demand that Mike Pence answer straight out if he is indeed running for Governor this Fall or if he plans to jump ship and be part of the Trump ticket! Governor Pence needs to give the voters of Indiana a straight answer and he needs to do it yesterday! The clock is ticking Governor! What's it going to be try to keep your job as Governor or jump ship and try to be VP?



Note to readers: For further Information on the myriad of scandals and problems caused by Mitch Daniels and Mike Pence during their tenures in Indiana. Please consult both Gary Welsh's blog Advance Indiana, Paul Ogden's blog Ogden on Politics, The Charlie White Show, and last but not least Jon Easter's Blog Indy Democrat and his podcast series The Johnny Stir Show.


Update: Fellow Blogger Jon Easter has written about Mike Pence's possible selection as VP on his blog. We encourage all our readers to check it out!