11/9 Torchbearer Public Affairs election Update
As you know, Election Day was this past Tuesday, November 7th. Here are some key updates that may be of interest to you. Let’s dig in …
- Hogsett Wins Third Term in Most Expensive Mayor’s Race in Indianapolis History
- Republican Sue Finkam Wins Race To Succeed Brainard As Carmel’s Mayor
- Democrat Deborah Whitfield Wins in Lawrence, To Become First Black Mayor in Marion County
- Three Hamilton County School Districts OK Operating Referendums
- Northern Suburban City And Town Councils Set- And Largely Republican- After Tuesday’s Election
- Share the Torchbearer Newsletter with Your Network!
Let’s dive in.
Hogsett Wins Third Term in Most Expensive Mayor’s Race in Indianapolis History
Democratic Mayor Joe Hogsett beat back his best-funded Republican challenger ever in businessman Jefferson Shreve, winning a third term Tuesday in what was the most expensive mayoral race in Indianapolis history.
Why it matters: Hogsett's victory highlights his administration's fiscal accomplishments and his commitment to finishing business disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The big picture: Hogsett's next steps include reducing gun violence and investing in the city's infrastructure.
What's next: Hogsett plans to focus on economic development, residential housing, and expanding the city's convention and tourism sports strategy. (IBJ)
Republican Sue Finkam Wins Race To Succeed Brainard As Carmel’s Mayor
Republican Sue Finkam wins Carmel mayoral race, ending Jim Brainard's three-decade reign.
Why it matters: This election marks a significant shift in leadership for the city after 30 years.
By the numbers: Finkam secured 56.6% of the vote, while Democrat opponent Miles Nelson received 42.2%.
The big picture: The election was seen as a test for Republican dominance in Carmel's elected offices.
What they're saying: "I thought this campaign would be about the best way to lead Carmel but it turned into something louder, nastier and negative when my opponent attacked me and put Carmel in a negative national light," said Finkam.
What's next: Finkam will take office on Jan. 1 and will focus on maintaining infrastructure, managing debt, increasing housing supply, and preserving Carmel's identity. (IBJ)
Democrat Deborah Whitfield Wins in Lawrence, To Become First Black Mayor in Marion County
Democrat Deborah Whitfield, an at-large council member in Lawrence, has defeated Dave Hofmann, a Republican and the current deputy mayor, to become the city’s next mayor.
Why it matters: Whitfield's victory marks a historic moment as she becomes the first Black mayor in Marion County history.
By the numbers: Whitfield had about 53% of the vote with 96% of Marion County’s vote centers reporting.
The big picture: Whitfield's win comes amid a lawsuit between the Democratic-majority council and outgoing Republican Mayor Steve Collier, which was officially settled in August.
What's next: Whitfield will take office as the new mayor of Lawrence, focusing on the future of the city's neighborhoods, public safety, and its people. (IBJ)
Three Hamilton County School Districts OK Operating Referendums
Voters in three Hamilton County school districts overwhelmingly approved operating referendums, sending millions of dollars in property tax revenue to the districts for staff, programs, and services.
Why it matters: The approved referendums will provide crucial funding for the districts to retain and attract teachers, staff, and maintain class sizes.
By the numbers: The referendums are expected to raise about $24 million annually for Carmel-Clay Schools, $24 million annually for Hamilton Southeastern Schools, and $1.3 million annually for Sheridan Community Schools.
The big picture: The overwhelming support for these referendums reflects the community's commitment to investing in education and ensuring the quality of schools.
What's next: The districts will now have the necessary funding to implement their plans and continue providing quality education to students. (IBJ)
Northern Suburban City And Town Councils Set- And Largely Republican- After Tuesday’s Election
Republicans dominate council seats in northern suburbs.
Why it matters: The election results will bring new faces and potential policy changes to the city and town councils in the northern suburbs.
By the numbers: Republicans won all but one seat on the Carmel City Council, and Democrats will hold the West District. In Fishers, three incumbents lost their seats, and Republicans will continue to hold all nine seats on the Noblesville City Council. The Westfield City Council will have seven new members in 2024. The Zionsville Town Council will have six Republicans and one Democrat.
The big picture: The election outcomes will shape the direction and decision-making of the local governments in the northern suburbs.
What's next: The newly elected council members will take office and begin their terms in January. (IBJ)
Share the Torchbearer Newsletter with Your Network!
Not signed up for our weekly newsletter? Sign up today!