Political Potpourri
I managed to pick up quite a bit of info yesterday. Here it is.
Coalition of the Willing Woman
Jean Breaux, daughter of outgoing Democratic State Senator Billie Breaux, may find herself with more influence than she thinks when she arrives at the Capitol. Sources say there is a lot of in fighting on the Republican side of the aisle, particularly amongst the men of Conservative Caucus and the Leadership. Things have gotten to the point where the women of the Senate may be the Chamber’s saving grace when it comes to health care and Full Day Kindergarten. They already exercised their muscle by the Republican female Senators backing David Long, in his quest for the Pro Tempore. Stay tuned.
Privatization Pitfall
House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Bill Crawford tells me he plans to hold two major hearings on Governor Mitch Daniels’ efforts to privatize state government. Crawford says prison privatization has not worked as well as the administration has touted. He cites recent budget committee hearings where the administration has asked for more money for health care and food services. Crawford says he opposes privatization, but would not cut services to the poor or prisons as a way to reign in the Administration. However, Crawford says he does have other “budget options” at his disposal that he ma be willing to use.
Someone Call Security
Wayne Township Trustee-elect David Baird is reportedly looking for a few good men. Sources say Baird wants to hire security guards to protect the Wayne Township Trustees office. With recent disposal of the Fire Resource Center, I don’t know what the guards would have to protect, but with crime out of control in Indianapolis, I can’t blame him too much.
The Race For County Chair
I’m told Kyle Hupfer, former DNR Commissioner, is getting into the race for Chairman of the Marion County Republican Party. Attorney, and former Todd Rokita campaign manager, Tom John is also a contender for the job.
