Resilience and reflection: The American experiment in crisis

Posted on by Joshua Claybourn

EVANSVILLE, Ind. — Why do we call it the “American experiment”? This phrase captures the tentative, evolving nature of our democracy, reminding us that what we have built is not guaranteed but continually tested. The Founders, in their wisdom, recognized the inherent fragility of a system reliant on the collective will and moral fortitude of its citizens. 

They envisioned a republic where power is derived from the people and civil discourse replaces the violence of autocratic rule. This experiment, audacious in its scope, is perpetually on the brink of failure or renewal, dependent on our adherence to its principles.

The recent assassination attempt on Donald Trump underscores the precariousness of this grand experiment. The image of Trump, blood tracing a red path down his face, defiantly pumping his fist into the air after being grazed by a bullet or glass from a shattered teleprompter, offers a tableau both disquieting and emblematic of our times. It forces us to reflect deeply on how violence has insidiously infiltrated our political discourse and what it means for the future of our democratic ideals.

Historically, America has prided itself on a democratic process that, while often contentious, refrains from violent confrontation. The Founders envisioned a nation where disputes were settled through reasoned debate, the ballot and the rule of law. 

In reality, however, a shocking 17% of U.S. presidents have now been shot in their lifetime — half of them lethally. The sight of a bloodied Trump rallying his supporters with an indomitable gesture suggests a creeping normalization of violence as a political tool. It is a moment that demands we reassess our commitment to nonviolent political engagement and the very essence of our democratic ethos.

The aftermath of the assassination attempt, with the image of Trump defiantly raising his fist, offers us a moment of profound reflection. This is more than a snapshot of resilience or defiance; it is a mirror reflecting the soul of our republic. How we choose to interpret this act will shape the trajectory of our democracy.

Trump’s gesture can be seen as a testament to the indomitable spirit of a leader who, despite facing mortal danger, stands unyielding. It is an image that can evoke admiration for his resolve to carry on in the face of violence, a symbol of strength that rallies those who believe in the durability of our democratic institutions. In this light, his raised fist becomes an emblem of fortitude, a declaration that our political discourse, no matter how fraught, will not be cowed by acts of aggression.

However, there lies an alternative interpretation — one that sees in that defiant fist a harbinger of retributive violence. This view fears that such a display might stoke the fires of division, encouraging a cycle where violence is met with violence and our democratic principles are further eroded. The American experiment, fragile and enduring, requires us to choose carefully which path we will follow.

Ultimately, the power of this moment lies in its ambiguity. It is a call to all of us to reaffirm our commitment to peaceful democratic traditions, to ensure that our response to violence is not one of escalation but of resolution. Trump’s raised fist, then, is not merely his gesture; it is a reflection of our collective conscience and the values we choose to uphold in these trying times.

The American experiment demands our vigilance. It requires us to interpret symbols with care and to choose actions that reinforce the foundations of our democracy. Trump’s gesture, then, is a canvas upon which we paint our collective future, a test of how we respond to the provocations that seek to challenge our most cherished values.

Yet, amid this reflection, there is a profound source of hope. The American spirit has always been resilient, capable of withstanding the most severe trials. From the Revolution to the Civil War, from the Great Depression to the Civil Rights Movement, we have faced moments of great peril and emerged stronger. This moment, too, can be one of renewal.

Our nation’s history is not a tale of unbroken triumph but a series of redemptive arcs where adversity becomes a crucible for moral and civic growth. We have the opportunity to recommit ourselves to the principles that define us: liberty, equality and justice. By fostering a culture of respect and dialogue, we can transform this period of tension into one of growth and unity.

The strength of our democracy lies not in the absence of conflict but in our ability to resolve it through peaceful means and mutual understanding. The sight of a bloodied Trump, resolute and unbowed, reminds us the American experiment is not a fragile project teetering on the brink of failure but a robust and dynamic democracy, capable of renewal and growth.

Let us seize this moment to reaffirm our commitment to a more perfect union, ensuring the spirit of liberty and justice endures for generations to come. The future of our republic rests on our shoulders and, in our collective hands, we hold the power to shape it into a beacon of hope and strength for all who cherish freedom.

Joshua Claybourn is an attorney and author in Evansville, Indiana. Visit him at JoshuaClaybourn.com.

They Said It (07.18.24)

Posted on by David Jacobs

“I’m going to go study the constitution and tax policy and I’ll see you guys in August.” —Sen. Blake Miguez, referencing a potential tax-focused special session while serving as Congressman Clay Higgins’ proxy at qualifying, as reported by The Illuminator’s Piper Hutchinson on X

“Most of us confronted with $25,000 from a politician under federal surveillance, our first thought would probably be to walk away from that situation, not to ask for a rubber band.” —Congressional candidate Quintin Anthony Anderson, taking a shot at Congressman Cleo Fields, in The Illuminator 

“I can no longer accept living in a community that has LSU and Southern (University) but we still lose to many of our young people because they’ve had to choose between opportunity and home.” —Former Rep. Ted James, who is running for mayor-president of East Baton Rouge Parish, in The Advocate

“We certainly have a record to stand on of accomplishments. We also have a vision for the future and a plan for the future for what we will accomplish in the next four years.” —Former state lawmakers Sharon Weston Broome, who is running for reelection as mayor-president of East Baton Rouge, in The Advocate

“We’ve had enough political violence.” —U.S. Sen. J.D. Vance, reacting to boos from the Michigan delegation following his mention of Ohio State University, as reported by Adam Wren on X

Our History: Gov. Mike Foster

Posted on by David Jacobs

Murphy J. “Mike” Foster, who served a relatively calm eight years as governor between two of the most tumultuous administrations in state history, was born 94 years ago this month in Shreveport. His namesake grandfather had governed Louisiana from 1892 until 1900. 

His family moved to Centerville, where he attended public schools. He enrolled at Virginia Military Institute in 1948 before transferring to LSU, where he graduated with a degree in chemistry. 

Foster joined the Air Force and served in the Korean War. After returning home to Franklin, he began farming sugar cane and soon after formed Bayou Sale Contractors, primarily as a means to keep his farm crew together during the offseason.

“I wasn’t one of those gentlemen farmers,” he reportedly said, even though he was sometimes described as a “wealthy planter” in the press. “I fixed my own tractors.”

Despite his background, Foster didn’t initially show much interest in politics. But after his state senator, Tony Guarisco, wouldn’t return his phone calls, Foster got mad and challenged the incumbent in 1987 and went on to trounce him with 64 percent of the vote. 

Foster was 64 in 1994 when he launched his campaign for governor in a stacked field that included former Gov. Buddy Roemer, Lt. Gov. Melinda Schwegmann, state Treasurer Mary Landrieu, Sen. Cleo Fields and former Rep. David Duke. He switched his registration from Democrat to Republican, and following the advice of his political consultant Roy Fletcher, staked out staunchly conservative positions on social issues.

Foster cut a deal with Duke that led Duke to get out of the race and endorse Foster. The relationship led to arguably the only scandal of Foster’s political career, when it was revealed that Foster had a secret deal with Duke and purchased a list of Duke’s contributors and supporters. Foster paid a $20,000 fine for not reporting the payment to Duke, making him the first governor to be fined by the Board of Ethics.

Fletcher put Foster atop a tractor in one ad, and behind a welding mask in another, creating a working-class image for a candidate that financed his campaign with $2 million of his own money. 

Foster ran first in the primary with 26 percent of the vote and trounced Fields in the runoff with almost 64 percent. He won reelection in the first round with 62 percent of the vote over then-Congressman Bill Jefferson.

Foster oversaw creation of the TOPS scholarship program and the Louisiana Community and Technical College System. The growing national economy boosted state coffers, allowing lawmakers to increase teacher pay, reduce state debt and boost funding for higher education. 

Foster helped create a deal to keep the Saints in New Orleans, approved using state money to expand the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, and was instrumental in getting the Charlotte Hornets (now the New Orleans Pelicans) to move to Louisiana. He also signed off on the Stelly Plan, a fiscal overhaul that made the state’s tax system less regressive but was unwound under his successors. 

His Commissioner of Administration Mark Drennen oversaw the consolidation of state workers downtown, issuing bonds to build at least 10 buildings in downtown Baton Rouge. Meant to save the state money over the long term, the project also spurred the revitalization of the city’s core. 

Foster’s outside interests spurred criticism of the sometimes-absentee governor. He learned to fly helicopters and took law classes at Southern University, graduating in 2004, the year he left office. 

Foster was a relatively hands-off governor, trusting his appointees to manage affairs in their areas. They included former Gov. Bobby Jindal, who Foster tapped to lead the state health department at age 24. 

After leaving the Governor’s Mansion, he and his wife, Alice, retired to Oaklawn Manor on the Bayou Teche. He died in 2020. 

Editor’s note: The information for this piece came from The Advocate, The New York Times and the Secretary of State’s office. 

News You Can Use (07.18.24)

Posted on by David Jacobs

— Campaigns & Elections: Text trends in ‘24: Messaging and fundraising

— OpenSecrets: As donor concerns mount, which replacement could match Biden’s fundraising power?

— Governing: Red states are winning in a green new world of economic growth

— Governing: How alternative investments are dragging down pension performance

— The Advocate: Qualifying for congressional, other races brings few surprises on first day

— Illuminator: Louisiana still hasn’t recovered all the jobs it lost during the pandemic

— The Advocate: Federal bill proposed as Louisiana’s fishing industry struggles: ‘Everything’s just gone down.’

— Illuminator: Appeals court sends Louisiana LNG terminal project back to regulators

— The Advocate: Years before chemical leak, Honeywell was warned about corrosion risks, Louisiana regulators say

— CNN: What two assassination attempts in two Louisiana elections in the 1870s warn about today

— The Advocate: Four presidents have been assassinated in U.S. history. One killer was from New Orleans

— Stateline: As public health becomes political, state surgeons general play delicate role

— PBS: Watch: Congressman Steve Scalise says Trump visited his family when he was shot in 2017 

Field Notes (07.18.24)

Posted on by David Jacobs

— NEW VP AT FMOLHS: Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System has named Ryan Cross to the newly created role of vice president of government affairs and advocacy. He will be responsible for monitoring and crafting state and federal policy in Louisiana and Mississippi and overseeing the system’s public policy and advocacy efforts in each state. Cross has worked in the Legislature and consulted on various political and issue campaigns. He joined FMOLHS in 2017 as director of communications.  

— DOTD CONSULTANT SEEKS MISSISSIPPI WASTE: Mississippi State Auditor Shad White has hired Boston Consulting Group with a mission to find at least $250 million in government waste, Mississippi Today reports. The Louisiana Coalition to Fix Our Roads also hired the firm after Gov. Jeff Landry asked the industry group to craft a reorganization plan for the Department of Transportation and Development.

—LEGE SEEKS CITY GIG: Rep. C. Denise Marcelle qualified to run for city constable at Baton Rouge City Court. So far it looks like she will face current officeholder Terrica Williams. Marcelle is in her third and final term in the House. 

— EX-LSU QB ENTERS POLITICS: While there may not have been any big surprises on the first day of qualifying, a familiar face for LSU football fans signed up to run for a spot on the East Baton Rouge Metro Council. Marcus Randall, who last played for the Tigers in 2004, is best known as the quarterback who threw the “Bluegrass Miracle” Hail Mary touchdown pass to beat Kentucky in 2002. 

—LETLOW CURRENTLY UNOPPOSED: Of the five members of Louisiana’s congressional delegation who are running for reelection, only Congresswoman Julia Letlow did not draw an opponent on the first day of qualifying. As of mid-morning Thursday, that was still the case. Letlow’s 5th District saw a significant shift in the redistricting process that led Congressman Garret Graves not to seek reelection in the 6th. Sen. Cleo Fields, the Democratic frontrunner, and former Sen. Elbert Guillory, who is endorsed by the state GOP, both qualified on the first day for the 6th, along with Baton Rouge Democrat Quentin Anthony Anderson. 

 

LaPolitics Q&A: Randal Gaines

Posted on by David Jacobs

LaPolitics: What are your expectations for next month’s Democratic National Convention?

Former Rep. Randal Gaines, chairman of the Louisiana Democratic Party: I have served as a delegate for the last four conventions. It’s a political pep rally. It builds excitement, enthusiasm and momentum behind our candidates and aligns the focus and energy toward a unified message. I expect that this convention will be even more energy-charged due to the fact that in this Biden v. Trump matchup, the future of our democracy depends on re-electing Biden.

What is your take on the idea that President Joe Biden should bow out of the election? 

I don’t think Biden should step down because of his performance in one debate.  Trump was completely unable to give fact-based answers to any of the questions and basically lied throughout the entire debate. This is a prime example of misplaced focus. Biden has provided excellent leadership to this country and has amassed a long record of outstanding accomplishments. The question should absolutely not be whether or not Biden can continue to provide outstanding leadership to this country, because he most certainly can. Our focus and efforts should be on making sure that an insurrectionist, election-denying convicted felon never again becomes president.    

What have been your early priorities as the new chair of the Democratic Party? 

Rebuilding confidence in our Democratic party and enthusiasm within our base. Developing compelling, provocative messages that address the concerns that matter most to our voters. Recruiting, training and fielding candidates in local races who may ultimately run for higher office. Initiating aggressive messaging and fundraising along with voter registration and education programs.

What are the most important changes necessary for making the state party more competitive statewide? 

Basically, we need to focus on the concerns that matter most to voters and reach them where they live. We need to engage voter groups that have been disconnected and overlooked and show them why they matter.  We can’t rebuild the party by only focusing on state elections. We have to start at the local level. Focus on youth development by training young leaders to play a role in providing future leadership for our state.

Would you consider running for office again, not counting party offices?  

At this point in time, I’m primarily focused on directing my efforts and energy toward rebuilding the state Democratic Party. I think that it’s critically essential in ensuring a positive trajectory for our state and a better quality of life for our citizens.

Editor’s note: This Q&A has been edited for length and clarity. 

Elections Beget Elections: Diving deeper into the PSC race

Posted on by David Jacobs

Down in Louisiana, elections beget elections.

You know the routine. An elected official runs for a different elected office, then they win and vacate their seat that yet another elected official in a separate elected position seeks and wins, and so and so forth.

Such a domino effect is being forecasted by some in Lafayette, should Sen. Jean-Paul Coussan win his bid for the Public Service Commission. There’s no guarantee that will happen, but that hasn’t stopped politicos in Acadiana from taking part in one of their favorite pastimes: political prognostication.

If (read: IF) Coussan moves to the PSC, Rep. Brach Myers, who replaced Coussan in the House, is positioning to make a go for the Lafayette Senate seat that would be vacated. The March ballot would be a likely suspect for this contest.

Myers would be able to raise money aggressively for what would be a short campaign, so anyone else looking at the Senate seat, if it becomes available, should start planning now. The district touches Broussard, Scott and Youngsville, along with Lafayette, so the field could get crowded.

Of course, if Myers wins a place in the upper chamber, another special election would be required for House District 45. While it elects Republicans nowadays, the central Lafayette district was represented by the late Gov. Kathleen Blanco and is relatively moderate for the region. 

Kyle Polozola, a Lafayette attorney and Catholic deacon, may seek Myers’ seat if it becomes open. Gov. Jeff Landry appointed Polozola to the state Board of Commerce and Industry, and he was on the short list for a federal judgeship a few years ago, according to a source, so he has political friends in high places. 

As of Thursday morning, only one candidate had officially signed up to replace Public Service Commissioner Craig Greene in the 2nd District. But at least three high-profile Republicans plan to compete in the GOP-leaning district that jogs from Baton Rouge to Lafayette. 

Attorney Julie Quinn is on the ballot. She was a state senator from 2005 to 2012 and remains involved in politics as a consultant. While she hailed from Metairie in the Legislature, and served on the Jefferson Parish School Board before that, she is currently based in Baton Rouge.

Coussan, who is campaigning, was unopposed in his Senate election last year and has demonstrated fundraising prowess, boasting more than $211,000 on hand in his most recent campaign finance report, greatly outpacing what his opponents show in their most recent reports.

That may not be the case once everyone qualifies and dollars are moved around. 

For instance, former Baton Rouge Rep. Scott McKnight said he’s in the mix for the PSC, too, and will have the resources to spread his message. In his last race, he ran third in the primary for state treasurer with 24 percent of the vote.

CONSTITUTIONAL CASH: Debate over Article VII fueling session, amendment chatter

Posted on by David Jacobs

While a conservative mega-donor pleads with Louisiana legislators to hold an everything-goes constitutional convention later this summer, the state revenue secretary is pushing instead for a narrowly-tailored special session in the coming weeks.

Both men agree the Constitution’s tax and finance section, Article VII, deserves an overhaul, although they differ on the amount of attention lawmakers should give to this particular issue.

Voters, meanwhile, are already slated to weigh in on two proposed constitutional amendments this fall targeting Article VII. A two-month fiscal-focused regular session is also on the books for April 14 and could host any and all of these money matters.

So why the rush? In short, electoral politics are to blame.

If lawmakers produce a new constitution via a convention or if they decide to go in a different direction and adopt a package of proposed amendments this summer, the end-product will have to be sent to voters either way. Serious fiscal issues are on the horizon, as in next year, and the current statewide election cycle could yield a turnout that we may not see here again for quite a while.

According to Secretary of State Nancy Landry, constitutional revisions must reach her desk by Aug. 23 if lawmakers want the proposals to appear on the Nov. 5 presidential ballot.

As we head into the weekend, the membership of the Senate sounds skeptical, at best, about returning to Baton Rouge for anything this summer. Support in the House appears stronger, but maybe not strong enough to pull off the most ambitious tax restructuring Louisiana has seen in modern history — in just 36 days.

GRIGSBY VS. NELSON

The architects of the various efforts to redraw Article VII all see the fall ballot as a golden opportunity.

Former President Donald Trump is expected to generate what could be a record turnout of conservative voters — and those voters will probably be willing to support fiscal ideals from the Republican Legislature and GOP Gov. Jeff Landry.

“To me, if you’re going to have a transformative document that changes the way we govern ourselves, which is what we truly need, then I’d like for it to be in front of everybody,” said Lane Grigsby, a Baton Rouge businessman who turned a contracting business into an annual revenue stream worth hundreds of millions annually.

Now retired from the front office of Cajun Industries, Grigsby stays civically engaged by cutting checks to politicians and pushing policy ideas. That includes an appeal to the Legislature recently to hold a far-reaching constitutional convention that would peel back the layers of Article VII as part of a larger, sweeping rewrite of other articles.

Then there’s Revenue Secretary Richard Nelson, who wants a special session to scrutinize Article VII and nothing else. He envisions a two-week session in August, preceded by committee hearings.

Nelson said, “The aim would be to develop a pretty comprehensive package of bills, through a lens of political reality: ‘This is where we can get consensus.’”

Grigsby, for his part, isn’t impressed by Nelson’s proposition, arguing it offers too little in the way constitutional reform.

“I think looking at Article VII only is an inappropriate way to run a business.” Grigsby told the Baton Rouge Press Club this week. 

THE LEGISLATIVE MOOD

Both approaches represent a big ask for lawmakers, who spent most of the first half of the year in one session or another.

Senate President Cameron Henry, who emerged from this year’s regular session as the primary spokesperson for con-con concerns, told LaPolitics he wouldn’t comment on Nelson’s plan until he had more details.

Nelson said he spoke with a number of lawmakers who are supportive, though he acknowledged “the ones who don’t want to do it don’t call me.” 

Senate Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Chair Franklin Foil said he has met with several colleagues as well who support the concept, generally, but he isn’t sure how many are interested in holding a special session this summer. 

Still, undoing the financial constraints of Article VII remains one of the primary motivators for lawmakers who are interested in one or both approaches from Grigsby and Nelson. 

“I see this as an alternative to reach some of the goals you would have for a constitutional convention,” Foil said. 

Waiting until next year is not ideal, the chairman added. Louisiana needs a statewide election cycle to host a proposed package of amendments or new constitution. There isn’t another statewide election planned until 2026. That won’t help the Landry Administration and Legislature deal with next year’s anticipated fiscal cliff. (A special statewide election could be called just for the ballot language, but such an option would be costly.)

ALREADY ON THE BALLOT

Even if lawmakers fail to gather in a special session or constitutional convention this fall, voters will still be faced with deciding a couple of tweaks to Article VII.

On the Nov. 5 ballot, HB 300 by House Natural Resources Vice Chair Joseph Orgeron will be on display. (All by itself, for now.) The proposed constitutional amendment would deposit federal revenues generated from alternative or renewable energy production in the Outer Continental Shelf into the Coastal Protection and Restoration Fund. This is a common budgeting practice for revenue from oil and gas production. 

Slightly more complicated is the Article VII amendment on the Dec. 7 ballot. (Three other non-fiscal amendments are on that ballot, too.) The details can be found in SB 119 by Senate Judiciary A Chair Greg Miller. Backed by Nelson’s department, the amendment would alter how the state handles property tax sales. 

If you don’t pay your property taxes in Louisiana, you could lose your house and all your equity, even if the home’s value far exceeds the amount of the delinquent tax bill. Last year, the U.S. Supreme Court essentially ruled the practice unconstitutional, Nelson said. 

The current system is “antiquated” and was set up to deal with farmland, he said. The language relied upon now also creates difficulties in establishing clear titles for adjudicated property, serving as an obstacle to getting the land back into commerce. 

Among other provisions, the amendment would direct the Legislature to establish “a procedure for claiming excess proceeds from the sale of property as a result of the enforcement of a lien” and authorize lawmakers “to give authority to tax collectors to waive penalties for good cause.”

Kansas Daily News Wire July 18, 2024

Posted on by State Affairs

Welcome to the Kansas Daily News Wire, your daily roundup of top state and political stories from newsrooms across Kansas. — Hawver’s Capitol Report/State Affairs

STATE

Outgoing Rep. Younger resigns; caucus set for late July: Rep. David Younger is ending his first and only term early after resigning from the Legislature. (Stover, State Affairs)

With medically unnecessary braces and tests, a Kansas doctor defrauded Medicare of $16M: A northeast Kansas doctor has lost his medical license after being part of a national telemedicine scheme to defraud Medicare of millions of dollars. (Topeka Capital-Journal)

31 municipalities secure $26M for highway upgrades: Gov. Laura Kelly on Wednesday announced a $26 million investment for 33 infrastructure improvement projects tied to the state’s highway systems. (Resnick, State Affairs)

Kansas’ 2nd District GOP candidate forum features marriage proposal, devotional silence: During a televised WIBW forum with all five Republican candidates in the 2nd District primary, Young said he would never shed to special-interest lobbyists and big-money influencers the bold stripes of a conservative Republican and limited-government constitutionalist. (Kansas Reflector)

Should Kansas legalize marijuana? Here’s what candidates for Congress in JoCo say: As Kansas remains one of a dozen states without legal medical or recreational marijuana, Democratic Rep. Sharice Davids and a Republican seeking to replace her, Prasanth Reddy, both say the federal government should provide states with wide latitude to set their own rules on cannabis. (The Kansas City Star)

LOCAL

Kansas health officials issue ‘high-risk warning’ for West Nile Virus: The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is issuing an urgent alert for people living in certain parts of the state due to the threat posed by West Nile Virus. (KSNT)

Kansas nursing home owners say they can’t afford to hire more staff: A landmark federal staffing mandate has prompted fierce disagreement between resident advocates and the nursing home industry. (KMUW)

It’s hot out, Kansas. So at what temperature do you set your AC thermostat?: It is hot in Topeka with summertime high temperatures heating up this July, but at what temperature do you set your air conditioning thermostat? (Topeka Capital-Journal)

Helping Hands Humane Society awarded $90K grant from Petco Love: Petco Love presented the $90,000 check to Helping Hands Humane Society, Wednesday morning in Topeka. (WIBW)

Kansas high schooler wins National Clay Target Championship: Brody Lenington of Cedar Vale-Dexter High School has been named national champion following the 2024 USA High School Clay Target League National Championship. (KSN)

Braun, McCormick on their coming showdown and the state of their parties

Posted on by Brian A. Howey

With Jennifer McCormick officially nominated at the Indiana Democratic Convention last Saturday, the three political party slates are set.

McCormick will face Republican nominee Mike Braun and Libertarian Donald Rainwater in November.

State Affairs/Howey Politics Indiana spoke with Braun, who is attending the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, on Tuesday. We also attended a post-Indiana Democratic Convention press scrum with McCormick and lieutenant governor nominee Terry Goodin on Saturday about three hours after news of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump in Pennsylvania.

On Monday, filings with the Indiana Election Division revealed Braun out-raised McCormick $6.185 million to $781,690 for the first half of the year. He out-spent her $8.58 million to $290,000 during that same period. The mid-year quarterly financial reports through June 30 also revealed Braun holds a $1.68 million-to-$700,013 cash-on-hand advantage over McCormick.

Here are our conversations with gubernatorial candidates Braun and McCormick. The interviews have been edited for clarity and brevity.

Q. The state and national GOP tickets appear to be entering the late summer in a position of strength. What does Ohio Sen. JD Vance’s addition to Donald Trump’s ticket do for the Braun campaign?

A. Braun: I’ve gotten to know J.D. well. I’ve been a co-sponsor on legislation with him as much as any other senator, with the exception of Josh Hawley. He’s a very articulate individual. He is youthful, which I think is important. He seems to have learned the system very quickly. I think he’s going to be most impactful in weighing in on the campaign in the three states — one of the three that will determine the outcome of the election — in Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin. He’s from the heart of the Midwest. If he can parlay everything he’s about into enough swing voters in one of those states, he could make a difference. I think he was a good choice.

Q. You have a huge money lead over McCormick. What do you believe your mid-year finance report has revealed about the race?

A. Braun: It reveals that when you look at who’s supporting me, it’s a broad base of entrepreneurs, small-business owners, everyone who was behind my [primary] competitors. It’s an example of since I’ve been in this business I’ve had no easy races. It’s the benefit of being a Main Street entrepreneur. As I’ve always said, politics and government are easier than running a business. It’s just compressed with two hard deadlines in May and November. I think the fundraising side of it is, sadly, getting way out of hand. It was the most expensive primary election in the history of our state. That’s too much money, but we had a good strategy. We held a lead from start to finish and managed to coalesce everyone into a unified party. That’s kind of all stuff you have to do when you’re building a business with customers, suppliers and employees.

Q. At the Democratic convention, your opponent characterized the Republican ticket as, basically, white male extremists. Your response?

A. Braun: I’m definitely not going to accede to that description myself, and once you get to know Micah Beckwith [the Indiana lieutenant governor nominee], I think he’s the reflection of a party that has largely neglected where the passion is in terms of people knocking on doors, putting up signs and doing all the trench work. We’ve engaged them in a way we haven’t as much as we should have over time. As I said at the [state] convention, he [Beckwith] did a good job winning that nomination. As far as my record, people are going to have to decide whether it makes sense. It’s going to be one of freedom, opportunity and accessibility on my end. I’m going to communicate with Hoosiers and put an agenda out that we haven’t seen out of recent governors. It’s gonna be in a way that makes sense to all Hoosiers. I’ll be able to communicate that.

Q. What kind of role is Beckwith going to be playing this summer and fall with the Braun campaign?

A. Braun: He’s doing what he’s been doing, which is engaging at the grassroots level, complementing what I’m going to have to do to make sure we’re financially in good shape. He’ll communicate the message in general. Every indication is since the convention he’s been doing just that. They’re going to try to paint a picture that doesn’t make sense to most Hoosiers. They know me well enough by now. They know my record. They can’t paint a picture that is not reflective of a good record. It will be my job to make sure that is communicated effectively, and for him to get out there and do it in a way that works for both of us.

Q. Things are looking bright for your campaign at this point, as well as the Trump-Vance ticket. These tickets are going to be exiting Milwaukee with a head of steam. What are you expecting this fall?

A. Braun: You take nothing for granted. You never put the cart before the horse, especially in politics. I think I’m known to work my tail off. I’ve come through three tough elections. I pretty well came out of nowhere in the [2018] Senate race. That was harder than this. I take nothing for granted. You’ve gotta have a platform that is appealing to your own party — which I think I represent — but more broadly to the average Hoosier and I think I represent that, too. I’m going to keep doing things I know have worked in the past.

Q. In the aftermath of Saturday’s assassination attempt on Donald Trump, are you concerned about the coming discourse and tenor of the campaign?

A. Braun: I was glad to see the other side of the aisle at the national level tone it down. They’ve been throwing a lot of the adjectives that would kind of go to the extreme. Our own party is guilty of that to some extent, but in general I think how that evening unfolded and the miraculous way to get through it, I think that our side is going to understand the enormity of it. As long as we stay on point showing how the policies of the last three and a half years have not made sense and that they’ve got their own political issues, we’ve got a golden opportunity to be happening at the national level as well as some of these tight Senate races across the country [and] the House of Representatives. I feel we’re in about as good a spot as we can be in.

McCormick, Goodin buoyed by grassroots effort 

Here are comments from Jennifer McCormick and Terry Goodin from Saturday’s post-convention press scrum:

Q. How do you feel?

A. McCormick: It was a great night. It showed that Democrats are ready to go. It showed the opportunity for Hoosiers that they trust their candidate for governor.

Q. The shooting of Donald Trump happened earlier today. You condemned that violence. Do you want to expand on that?

A. McCormick: I don’t have all the details. It’s been an incredibly busy day. There is no room for political violence. There is no room for violence in political discourse on any side, so it’s unfortunate it happened. We’ll await the details. There are just other ways to handle disagreement, and it’s not through violence.

Q. Indiana is a Republican state. Donald Trump has done well here twice. What will you do differently than other Democrats?

A. McCormick: When you’re 50 out of 50th on voter turnout, you’re gonna be red. If we vote, we win. It’s red because of our voting turnout problem. Unfortunately our General Assembly made it more difficult. We’re going to take that responsibility to get out the vote. We’re getting into communities; we’re developing those relationships. We’re getting our message out. We’re reaching across that aisle, so we know it’s going to be a big lift. We’re energized; we’ve got a great grassroots coalition of teachers and unions and women and men who support women, and all kinds of educators. We’re ready to go. It’s very much going to take a grassroots coalition.

Q. Terry, does the overwhelming vote for you [at the state convention] assuage that?

A. Goodin: You hit it right on the head. I’ve always promised to be a life-long learner. We’ve had those conversations. Today’s vote just reaffirmed their confidence in my ability to do a good job.

Q. How will you approach the process in the next couple of months?

A. Goodin: I’m a competitor and I love it. I’ve had a smile on my face for three weeks.

Q. Southern Indiana is more Republican than it used to be. How are you going to work to bring some of those voters back to the Democratic ticket?

A. Goodin: That’s an easy question to answer. What the people like in Southern Indiana is they like common sense. What we’re going to bring to Southern Indiana is common sense. We’re gonna hit the ground running and we’ll start tonight. We’re going to campaign, campaign and campaign. Those are the three things we’re gonna do. As we move forward you’re going to see us out a lot. Hoosiers want us to do things and that’s what we’ll do. We’ll service those people who put us into office. We’re going to listen to Hoosiers and do what they want.

Q. Do you support President Biden remaining on the top of the ticket?

A. McCormick: I know there’s a lot of decisions to be made. The biggest thing is he’s been a very successful president, but we want him to take care of his own health. It’s a very personal decision to make with his family and health care provider. Regardless of who lands in that position, we’re going to support them. As I’ve said all along, as governor of Indiana I’ll work with them. When they get things right for Indiana, we will celebrate it. And when it’s a challenge for Indiana, we will be the first ones knocking at the door. We are committed to working with whomever is elected president. That’s the responsibility of a governor.

Q. Do you have any concerns about your safety?

A. McCormick: It’s always a concern. You’ve got people out there who are sometimes more radical or extreme and they take it to a whole other level. I’m just aware. I’m not going to run scared of it. We’re aware of our surroundings. We pay attention to social media. I’m not really concerned. There have been no direct threats. We’re ready to go, and we’re going to run our race and not run scared.

Q. What has changed in Indiana to make you believe that as a Democrat you can win statewide office?

A. McCormick: The Braun-and-Beckwith ticket is just too extreme for Indiana. We’re hearing that across the state of Indiana. We’re hearing Hoosiers from across the political aisle say, “We just want someone who will concentrate on common sense and bipartisanship. Just focus on good-paying jobs and a strong economy — good education and affordable, accessible health care.” We’re hearing that message from across the political aisle. People are hungry, and we see that every day. It’s time. The other option is just very, very extreme, and that’s just not a fit for Indiana.

Q. How much are you depending on public school teachers to get out the vote?

A. McCormick: Education is over half of the state budget. It’s extremely important. If we get education right, we’re in a much better place as a state. We have to have an educated workforce. We have to have educated consumers. That’s just the reality of a successful state. We will rely on that K-12 education space, child care and post-high school. People are very aware, and they don’t like our ranking of 41st in the nation in educational attainment. We’re expensive, but we need to see it as other than an expensive investment. We need to prioritize education. We are seeing the effects of not doing that at this time. It is time to refocus on prioritizing K-12. Kids deserve it.

Q. What can you do for reproductive health if the Republicans control the General Assembly?

A. McCormick: I’ll use that platform to look at every available option for ballot initiatives. It is time Indiana goes into that world and allows voters to have a voice. We need that mechanism to allow us as a majority of Hoosiers to say where we stand on issues. We do have boards, commissions and state agencies. There are things a governor can do in that space. We are going to use any authority we have to move that needle. It’s a health care access issue as well. A third of our counties don’t have OB-GYNs. That’s not good for the state of Indiana. A lot of our kids don’t have pediatricians. That’s not good for Indiana. It’s a much broader problem that we need to address.

Q. What about the Democrats’ fundraising deficit?

A. McCormick: Do we have one? We understand that fundraising is going to be difficult. It’s not a surprise to anyone. We’re going to work hard for every dollar we get. I know the state party is working hard. We’re also reaching across the aisle for those dollars and have had some success with that. We will have enough to be competitive. We feel good about where we are.

Brian A. Howey is senior writer and columnist for Howey Politics Indiana/State Affairs. Find Howey on Facebook and X @hwypol.

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