by

Fred Swift

Hamilton County Reporter

(NOTE: This is a commentary written by Fred Swift of the Hamilton County Reporter. The views expressed are those of Fred Swift and do not necessarily reflect the views of LarryInFishers.com.  This opinion piece is posted here as part of a partnership between the Reporter and LarryInFishers.com) 

The days following Labor Day usually mark the beginning of the fall election campaign. In Hamilton County there is usually not much of a campaign in non-presidential years. But three factors at play this year may bring life to the off-year election.

First is the red-hot race for a U.S. Senate seat in which incumbent Democrat Joe Donnelly is being challenged by Republican Mike Braun.  Our county may find itself at an important place in the statewide race. A big Republican plurality here may be needed by Braun in what is believed to be a close contest. The outcome could even determine control of the Senate where the GOP currently has only a 51-49 edge.

The second factor that may spice this year’s general election is the school board race in each of the county’s six districts. A referendum asking for a $50 million bond issue in Noblesville may bring greater than normal interest in the non-partisan competition for two seats on the five-member school board. And, at Carmel the dismissal of a successful girls basketball coach combined with plans to close Orchard Park Elementary School have stirred controversy where three of the five board members are facing re-election.

And, a third factor in this year’s campaign came about when Democrats fielded more candidates for local office than have been seen in many years. Party Chairman Joe Weingarten has indicated there will be a more aggressive local campaign than in the past.

Republican Chairwoman Laura Campbell, aware of the Democrats’ plans, sent an email update to party workers and volunteers this week pointing out the importance of the Senate, state legislative and county races. She said the party has been at work this summer identifying potential party supporters.

Meanwhile, next year’s city elections, in which some candidates have already made their plans known, will likely have to take a backseat until after the statewide Nov. 6 contests are decided.