Indy Politics Podcast with Abdul-Hakim Shabazz

Early voting is just days away, and this might be the most interesting Indiana primary in years. I’m joined by University of Indianapolis political scientist Dr. Laura Wilson to break down the heated political climate, rising threats and doxxing, Trump-backed challenges to GOP state senators over redistricting, and a wild Secretary of State race featuring Diego Morales, Democrats, and former Indy Mayor Greg Ballard running as an independent.

State Rep. Ed DeLaney (D-Indianapolis) talks with Indy Politics at this weekend’s “No Kings” rally about the 2026 midterms, Democratic momentum, and concerns over voting access and the direction of the Republican Party. The interview runs about five minutes.

Citizens Energy Group says Central Indiana has enough water — for now. President Jeff Harrison outlines a 50-year supply plan as growth, data centers, and projects like the LEAP District increase demand. The utility says new large users will pay their own way, not ratepayers. Officials also point to new storage, including the 3-billion-gallon Citizens Reservoir, to maintain reliability. The question going forward: can supply keep up as “future growth” becomes reality?

A Clay County judge is weighing arguments that could decide who appears on the ballot in Indiana Senate District 38. At the center of the case: whether an old criminal case counts as a disqualifying felony—or a misdemeanor under alternative sentencing. The dispute follows a deadlocked Indiana Election Commission vote and has already triggered emergency court action over absentee ballots. Now, the courts will determine how Indiana law applies—and what it means for voters in the district.

A Clay County judge is weighing arguments that could decide who appears on the ballot in Indiana Senate District 38. At the center of the case: whether an old criminal case counts as a disqualifying felony—or a misdemeanor under alternative sentencing. The dispute follows a deadlocked Indiana Election Commission vote and has already triggered emergency court action over absentee ballots. Now, the courts will determine how Indiana law applies—and what it means for voters in the district.

Indy Politics speaks with Brad Klopfenstein, president of the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce, about local development, changes in the alcohol and gaming industries, and the current political landscape in Indiana.

Former Republican state senator Jim Merritt discussed his book "Lessons Learned: Are We Ready for the Next Pandemic? History Says No," which examines the COVID-19 pandemic and past pandemics like the Black Plague and Spanish Flu. Merritt highlighted the chaotic response in Indiana, the lack of a comprehensive after-action report, and the need for better communication and trust in government. He emphasized the importance of telehealth, mental health support, and preparedness for future pandemics, advocating for respected authorities to lead public health efforts. Merritt also shared personal anecdotes about his parents' vaccination experiences.

Governor Mike Braun says Indiana is taking on rising utility costs with a new affordability push targeting energy companies and massive data center projects. But House Democrats say the governor and Republican lawmakers blocked their proposals for immediate relief, including tax breaks on utility bills and limits on rate increases.

Governor Mike Braun says Indiana is taking on rising utility costs with a new affordability push targeting energy companies and massive data center projects. But House Democrats say the governor and Republican lawmakers blocked their proposals for immediate relief, including tax breaks on utility bills and limits on rate increases.

The Marion County Election Board has referred Indiana Secretary of State Diego Morales to the Inspector General and State Ethics Commission over allegations that state staff and video from an official visit were used in a political campaign ad. Indy Politics breaks down what happened, why county officials say it crosses an ethics line, and what could happen next.

Former Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard joins Indy Politics to discuss why he’s running for Indiana Secretary of State as an independent, citing frustration with hyper-partisan “gotcha” politics and a growing block of disillusioned voters. Ballard talks about the steep signature requirements for independent candidates and how an old law was changed to make ballot access tougher after an independent nearly upset a legislator. He highlights his 31 years of public service, including the Marine Corps and two terms as mayor, arguing that his experience makes him well-suited to run elections in a nonpartisan, professional way. Ballard addresses recent attacks on his residency and voting record, calling them misleading and emblematic of what turns voters off from both major parties. He says his goal is to give Hoosiers—especially young and independent-minded voters—a credible alternative and to tone down the rhetoric in Indiana politics.

Former Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard shocked Indiana politics this week with an announcement he is running as an Independent candidate for Secretary of State. The announcement comes just a day after a poll showed Ballard very competitive in a three-way race, likely pulling heavily from incumbent Diego Morales. Will Ballard play spoiler to Morales if he is the nominee? Can Ballard actually win? Rob Kendall, Abdul-Hakim Shabazz, and Jim Merritt discuss on Statehouse Happenings.

Although data centers were not on Monday night's Indianapolis City-County Councils' agenda, Decatur Township residents showed up to oppose the project.

Although data centers were not on Monday night's Indianapolis City-County Councils' agenda, Decatur Township residents showed up to oppose the project.

The Mid-States Corridor just moved from planning map to fiscal test. Governor Braun is embracing Budget Committee review instead of fighting it. He made those comments Monday at his end of session news conference.

The 2026 legislative session is over, and both parties are claiming victory on “affordability.” Republicans point to tax cuts, housing reform, utility oversight, and the Bears stadium framework as proof they delivered structural relief. Democrats argue the state settled for incremental steps and missed bigger opportunities on healthcare, childcare, and cost of living. In this episode, we break down what actually passed, what stalled, and what it all means when Hoosiers open their bills next month.

The 2026 legislative session is over, and both parties are claiming victory on “affordability.” Republicans point to tax cuts, housing reform, utility oversight, and the Bears stadium framework as proof they delivered structural relief. Democrats argue the state settled for incremental steps and missed bigger opportunities on healthcare, childcare, and cost of living. In this episode, we break down what actually passed, what stalled, and what it all means when Hoosiers open their bills next month.

The 2026 legislative session is over, and both parties are claiming victory on “affordability.” Republicans point to tax cuts, housing reform, utility oversight, and the Bears stadium framework as proof they delivered structural relief. Democrats argue the state settled for incremental steps and missed bigger opportunities on healthcare, childcare, and cost of living. In this episode, we break down what actually passed, what stalled, and what it all means when Hoosiers open their bills next month.

The 2026 legislative session is over, and both parties are claiming victory on “affordability.” Republicans point to tax cuts, housing reform, utility oversight, and the Bears stadium framework as proof they delivered structural relief. Democrats argue the state settled for incremental steps and missed bigger opportunities on healthcare, childcare, and cost of living. In this episode, we break down what actually passed, what stalled, and what it all means when Hoosiers open their bills next month.

A new poll once again shows Indiana Governor Mike Braun underwater. A survey done by Public Policy Polling reveals that a shocking 53 percent of Hoosiers disapprove of the job Braun is doing, compared to just 25 percent who support the governor. Why are Braun's numbers so bad and what can he do to turn them around? Rob Kendall, Abdul-Hakim Shabazz, and Jim Merritt discuss on Statehouse Happenings.