Hi, I’m just back from a short trip and fall has arrived.
Thought I would touch on our choices in the governor’s race. Republican candidate, six–term US Congressman Mike Pence has been campaigning as a clone of Mitch Daniels. His campaign signs proclaim “Mike” instead of “Mitch!” In reality, his record is much different from Daniels and his views more resemble Rick Santorum’s. Pence is a strong Social Conservative and a former leader in the Republican House. He briefly considered running for the Presidency this year, but opted for the Governorship. As a major player in the contentious US congress, Pence brings a lot of baggage.
In 2011, he indicated his willingness to shut down the US government over defunding Planned Parenthood. Pence so hates the Affordable Care Act (aka Obama care) that he likened the Supreme Court’s ruling upholding it to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Anticipating becoming Governor, he flat-out refuses to consider setting up an Indiana health-exchange system to provide affordable low-cost insurance to Hoosiers. The two other gubernatorial candidates are for the system and Governor Daniels has responsibly taken preliminary steps in this regard. Pence is clean-shaven.
Pence’s Democratic opponent, former Indiana Speaker of the House John Gregg, has run commercials emphasizing his Sandborn, Indiana roots. His campaign signs show his trademark mustache. Gregg has quite moderate views similar to those of former Governors Bayh and O’Bannon. As Indiana Speaker, Gregg had a track record of working across the aisle in a nonpartisan manner.
A third choice is Libertarian and heavily-bearded Rupert Boneham. Rupert gained fame as being a two-time participant on the TV show “Survivor.” He used part of his winnings to start a troubled-youth charity.
So, as a voter, ask yourself who you want: a strong Social Conservative with national ambitions, a moderate Democrat with strong Indiana roots, or a Libertarian with a heart? Or, how much facial hair do you prefer on your Governor: none, some, or a lot? The choice is yours!