National media ponders Daniels run

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Two weeks ago, Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels (R) was mired in a budget battle and focused on developments in the Statehouse. But all of the sudden, he is the subject of increased speculation around the country regarding a run for president.

The Fix , a popular political column in the Washington Post, made mention Friday of the effort to sell the Daniels record nationwide.

It’s the sort of buzz that the web site Americans for Mitch was designed to generate. The web site went online Wednesday touting the Mitch Daniels record, citing accomplishments and outlining his positions on national issues.

Because Daniels has said repeatedly that he is not interested in higher office, the web site drew mixed reactions on Indiana Week in Review.

Republican Mike McDaniel said, "It's a wonderful thing. How can it not be for Indiana and Mitch Daniels, just as it has been in the past for other political leaders who have had that kind of exposure nationally. It's a wonderful thing."

Democrat Ann DeLaney said, "But I think that's more to make himself less a lame duck than he already is, than it is for future office."

Regardless, Mitch Daniels continues to make news even when he's on vacation. When describing the governor's current vacation, Lieutenant Governor Becky Skillman couldn't resist a reference to marital troubles faced by South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford.
"It's a well-deserved break and, before you ask, yes, we know where he is, yes, know how to reach him and yes, he is with his wife," joked Skillman.

The reference is a variation on remarks Daniels has made himself.

If nothing else, it shows he is comfortable with his reputation at the moment.