Indiana’s 2016 gubernatorial race could be a repeat of 2012 after Democrat John Gregg Thursday announced he’ll run for governor again. But he might have competition for the nomination this time.
Gregg indicated back in 2013 he wouldn’t seek another shot at the governor’s office, but in the months since, rumors start circulating that the former House Speaker was changing his mind.
And in a video posted on his campaign website announcing his run, Gregg says it’s the fallout from the religious freedom law controversy – and Mike Pence’s economic policies – that prompted his decision.
“We’ve all seen the damage done to Indiana by Mike Pence," Gregg says. "He’s managed to alienate the entire country with his extreme religious freedom law, a law that’s an embarrassment and wrong.”
But Gregg might have company in the Democratic primary. State Superintendent Glenda Ritz says after the attacks this past session on her office and public education, she’s not taking any options off the table.
“The first priority is getting through this school year – we’re in the midst of testing, getting all that done," Ritz says. "But after that, I’m going to sit down with my family and determine what is best for the children and the families in Indiana.”
Pence says he’s been preparing to seek reelection over his two years in office. But he says his focus now is on completing the work of the 2015 legislative session. He also hasn't ruled out a run for the White House, though many pundits say the RFRA controversy may have ended any serious talk of running for president.
Pence may get a challenge from former Angie's List CEO Bill Oesterle, who resigned earlier this month so he could, in his words, spend more time in civic life. He did not say if that includes a run for governor -- the office he helped Mitch Daniels attain by running the campaigns of Mike Pence's predecessor.
