House Democratic Leader Pat Bauer has reportedly cleaned out his Statehouse office.
It's the latest sign the South Bend Democrat might be ousted from his post at a party caucus meeting scheduled for Thursday.
Sources confirm to Indiana Public Broadcasting that Bauer’s Statehouse office is virtually empty. However, Bauer says he’s merely, in his words, “changing logistics” and switching out decorative items for communications equipment.
Growing frustration in the caucus about Bauer’s handling of campaigns and his apparent rejection of support from other House Democrats led to an effort to replace him in recent weeks. Not enough support could be mustered for that move, but it appears Democrats will try again at a Thursday caucus meeting in Lafayette.
Bauer says he understands Democrats’ frustration but is hopeful he’ll remain his party’s leader.
“I believe that I’ll still be out here doing work in some form or the other and I hope that’s the case, that we’re united. Otherwise, divided you fall, united you stand.”
Bauer insists he’s been in communication with members of his caucus about their concerns.
