Indiana

Handicapping the Loyal Opposition

By Abdul Hakim-Shabazz

Since Democrats and Republicans are doing their county re-organizations today and nothing major is expected to happen at either event, I thought I’d do a little handicapping of the 2011 Mayoral Race, since everyone and his mother is planning to run on the D side.

I’m mainly sticking with the candidates whose names have appeared either on this blog or get discussed in coffee shops, fundraisers and bars.  If I’m missing someone, feel free to add them.

Melina Kennedy

• Strengths - Has experience in the Mayor’s office and will work hard.  Also reportedly has close ties to Andre Carson and Lacy Johnson.
• Weaknesses - Ran in 2006 for County Prosecutor and was the only countywide Democratic candidate to lose.  Also has close ties to Bart Peterson who also lost.  Could be the Walter Mondale of the 2011 race.

Frank Anderson

• Strengths - Incumbent sheriff, with two countywide victories under his belt.  Could be first Black Mayor of Indianapolis.
• Weaknesses - His management of the jail and sheriff’s department.  A multitude of potential skeletons as well as potential physical and mental health issues because of his age.

Woody Meyers

• Strengths - Has a ton of money to play with.  Very smart and articulate.  Also has potential to be the city’s first Black Mayor.
• Weaknesses - Ran against Andre Carson in 2008 and lost.  Establishment still holds a grudge.

Brian Williams

• Strengths - Venture capitalist and businessman.  Could raise a lot of money and bring new blood to the table.
• Weaknesses - Little name ID.  Never held public office.

Joe Hogsett

• Strengths - Held statewide office.  Strong ties to Evan Bayh and high name ID in Democratic circles. Former head of the state Democratic party.
• Weaknesses - Defended businesses against discrimination and civil rights complaints, which could be a problem for Black voters, a key constituency in Democratic politics.  Also ran for Attorney General in 2004 and lost to Steve Carter.

Kip Tew

• Strengths - Strong ties to President Barack Obama and was key in putting Indiana in the “blue” column.  Could draw upon that organizational and fundraising advantage.
• Weaknesses - Never held elected office.  Obama may not be popular in two years which would limit Tew’s ability to win a general election.

These are just my early thoughts because 2011 is a long way off and anything could happen. Feel free to share your opinions.

Full post as published by Indiana Barrister on March 07, 2009 (boomark / email).