Bayh donates $500K to Ind. Democratic Party

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Indiana Democrats got a big boost in the form of a half million dollar donation from Evan Bayh. It likely means a much bigger get-out-the-vote effort for every Democratic candidate in Indiana but it's also the kind of help that may attract other meaningful donations.

Just last week Evan Bayh campaigned with Democratic Senate candidate Brad Ellsworth deflecting questions about his ability to donate and pointing to the huge donation he made in MarcH. "I was very pleased to provide a million dolllars to the state party which is being used to help Brad," Bayh said at the time, "I think that's the largest contribution by a political figure in the history of our state. I hope other people will do likewise and step up and be supportive."

The money is now in the hands of State Democratic Chairman Dan Parker. 24 Hour News 8's Jim Shella asked him how the money will be spent. "Well, left up to my discretion," said Parker, "but it's gonna be invested in making sure we maintain control of the Indiana House, and turning out votes for our Senate candidate, Brad Ellsworth, and our Congressional candidates."

The Bayh donation arrived as Republican Dan Coats won the endorsement of the state Chamber of Commerce. "The Indiana Chamber Congressional Action Committee believes that Dan Coats is highly qualified," said Kevin Brinegar of the Chamber. "The bottom line is jobs, getting people back to work," said Coats.

Coats also has a new television ad pushing his message on the economy. But suddenly Evan Bayh is playing a bigger role in the race he chose avoid, sending the message that it's not too late to save the Ellsworth campaign.

Meantime, look for Brad Ellsworth to resume his television advertising next Tuesday.