Bayh, Braun split efforts in final push for Indiana secretary of state

Former Gov. Evan Bayh and Gov. Mike Braun held separate events in Indianapolis on Monday to support their respective candidates for Indiana secretary of state ahead of the Nov. 3 election.

Evan Bayh joined his son, Democratic candidate Beau Bayh, at a memorial for Susan Bayh at Holiday Park. Susan Bayh, who died of brain cancer in 2021, was the mother of the Democratic nominee. Evan Bayh told reporters he is proud of his son for challenging the Republican political establishment.

“It's because they're trying to stop the change in accountability that Beau stands for,” Evan Bayh said. He noted that several Republican leaders, including President Trump, have spoken against his son. Beau Bayh described his campaign as an effort to hold current Secretary of State Diego Morales accountable for allegations of fraud and misuse of taxpayer dollars. Morales faces calls for an independent audit from multiple candidates.

Beau Bayh reflected on his late mother during the visit. “Anytime that I feel a little bit down or I'm questioning myself, I think about what she would advise me to do,” he said. “I wish she was here, but she's not.”

Gov. Braun stumped for Republican candidate Max Engling at a campaign event hosted by the Marion County GOP. Braun told attendees to stay energized despite polls showing a potential Democratic lead, citing internal models of early voting. “You know who’s ahead? The GOP in our state,” Braun said.

Engling argued for maintaining Republican control of the election office. He cited a law in Washington, D.C. that allows eligible non-citizens to vote for local offices. “That’s what happens when Democrats run our elections, and we will not let that happen here in Indiana,” Engling said. He stated that an Inspector General investigation would be sufficient to address concerns about the current office.

Republican incumbents Treasurer Daniel Elliot and Comptroller Elise Nieshalla also spoke at the rally. Elliot highlighted his financial record, stating he raised 1.8 billion dollars during his first three fiscal years. “In three fiscal years that I've been your state treasurer, I've raised 1.8 billion dollars,” Elliot said. Nieshalla concluded her remarks by chanting “Make America Like Indiana.”