Indy Chamber’s Business Advocacy Committee Makes Primary Endorsements

(INDIANAPOLIS) – The Indy Chamber’s Business Advocacy Committee (BAC) announced its first round of endorsements for the 2018 election cycle today, making selections in several legislative primary contests.  Notably, the region’s largest business organization is supporting Corrie Meyer in the Republican primary in Senate District 29, covering parts of Hamilton, northwest Marion and southeast Boone Counties.

An entrepreneur working in city planning and urban design, Meyer has earned the endorsements of past and present GOP mayors covering District 29; she now adds support and financial backing from the political arm of the Indy Chamber, which represents thousands of employers across the metropolitan area.

“Corrie’s career has focused on building stronger communities in our region – she impressed us as a planner and problem-solver, not another divisive politician,” said Michael Huber, President and CEO of the Indy Chamber.  “She has forward-thinking positions on government reform, workforce readiness, transit and more, as someone who sees the real-world impact of state policies on local economic and community development every day.”

In addition to Corrie Meyer for State Senate in District 29, the BAC voted to endorse other primary candidates in Central Indiana:

• Senator Tim Lanane (D) SD25
• Senator Jim Merritt (R) SD31
• Representative Jerry Torr (R) HD39
• Representative Sean Eberhart (R) HD57
• Representative Terri Austin (D) HD36
• Representative Robin Shackleford (D) HD98

“The BAC endorsed primary candidates who represent differing political views on some issues, but a common approach to legislating – they’re in public service to make a difference, not just make headlines,” said Mark Fisher, the Indy Chamber’s Chief Policy Officer.

“From redistricting reform to community-based redevelopment, reintegrating ex-offenders into the job market and reconnecting people and employers through transit, these lawmakers have taken a thoughtful approach to serious issues,” Fisher continued.  “These incumbents have earned our support, and Corrie Meyer has earned the opportunity to join them as we work towards a stronger, more inclusive economy for Central Indiana.”

The Indy Chamber BAC will continue to evaluate candidate positions, emerging issues and priorities for the 2019 budget session of the Indiana General Assembly, and will announce endorsements for the general election closer to the fall campaign season.