GOP prosecutor candidate emerges

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - The search for a Republican candidate for Marion County Prosecutor is over.

Former prosecutor Scott Newman is recommending Mark Massa as his choice for the GOP nomination. That recommendation was sent in an email this afternoon to Republican parties.

Mark Massa is the governor's general counsel and a former deputy prosecutor. He considered launching a run for prosecutor a year ago but Mitch Daniels didn't want to lose him. He still doesn't. "No, I would not like to see him run," said Daniels. "I'd like him to stay here doing the tremendous job he's been doing."

But when Carl Brizzi decided against a run for re-election and the campaign of Brizzi aide Helen Marchal fizzled after a few weeks, party leaders found themselves in a quandary with nowhere else to turn.

GOP county chairman Tom John thinks Massa can salvage the situation. "We could not do better and I believe he is the sort of outstanding individual with the integrity and the ethics to lead this office in this time," says John.

Massa still won't comment on the record saying his decision will be made public next week. But the governor left little doubt that his top lawyer will soon be a candidate. "They've got the best person," says Daniels. "The process may have been less than optimal but it stumbled its way to the very best person. He is superbly qualified, with experience, intellect, and integrity but I won't kid you, I would hate to lose him."

The filing deadline for Massa to appear at the Republican slating convention is Monday. Slating takes place on February 13th. In his report Newman says he is optimistic that Massa is ready to heed the call.

Massa will face one of two Democrats, Terry Curry or Greg Bowes.