Bayh and Braun split strategy in final push for Indiana voters
The former and current governors separated their endgame efforts, with Bayh honoring his late wife while Braun rallied Republican downballot candidates in Indianapolis.
By Chioma Brooks ·
Former Governor Evan Bayh and current Governor Mike Braun adopted distinct approaches to court voters on the final day before the November 3 election.
Bayh visited a memorial for his late wife, Susan, at Holiday Park in Indianapolis alongside his son, Democrat Beau Bayh. Evan Bayh told reporters that Republicans, including President Trump, opposed his son to halt the accountability reforms Beau champions. He noted that Susan, who died of brain cancer in 2021, would be proud of her son for standing on principle. Beau Bayh said he often recalls his mother’s advice when he feels uncertain. He stated, “I wish she was here, but she’s not.”
Beau Bayh’s campaign centers on holding current Secretary of State Diego Morales accountable. Morales faces allegations of fraud, nepotism, and misuse of taxpayer dollars, prompting multiple candidates to call for an independent audit. Democrats aim to take the office for the first time since 1994, though polls indicate a tight race.
Gov. Braun held a separate rally for Republican candidate Max Engling and other downballot races at an event hosted by the Marion County GOP. Braun urged attendees to remain energized despite polling showing a Democratic lead, claiming that internal early voting models showed Republicans ahead. He said, “You know who’s ahead? The GOP in our state.”
Sen. Todd Young and Attorney General Todd Rokita attended Engling’s press event to build support. Engling argued that keeping the secretary of state’s office in Republican hands prevents the type of voting rules seen in Washington, D.C., where eligible non-citizens can vote in local offices. He warned, “That’s what happens when Democrats run our elections, and we will not let that happen here in Indiana.”
Republican incumbents Daniel Elliot and Elise Nieshalla also spoke. Elliot cited raising 1.8 billion dollars in three fiscal years as a reason to vote for him. Nieshalla concluded her remarks by chanting, “Make America Like Indiana.”
Voters head to the polls on Tuesday, November 3, to decide the secretary of state race and other downballot contests.
Source: WBAA
