State Sen. Merritt announces run for Indianapolis mayor
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – Republican State Sen. Jim Merritt on Thursday announced he would challenge incumbent Joe Hogsett, a Democrat, in the race for mayor of Indianapolis.
Merritt wasted no time taking Hogsett to task on the increase in crime in the city during Hogsett’s time in office.
“My mom doesn’t drive anymore. If my mom was going to grocery I would be worried about her getting out the car and getting into the store, people feel unsafe. It is theft and it’s murder. I think they wouldn’t say it, but I think there are a lot of morale problems at IMPD. They won’t be there when I’m there,” said Merritt.
Most recently, Merritt has attempted to raise his public profile with a statewide campaign against heroin. He was first elected to the Indiana Senate in 1990 and has escaped vigorous Democratic challengers in the past two elections.
According to Merritt, the mayoral race is about rebuilding the city and fixing crumpling bridges and roads with a long-term plan.
“We need a long-term, not just bonding for tax money. We need long-term capitol revenue rather than just a patch. We need a long-term program for our roads, for our sidewalks, really just an infrastructure plan, and we don’t have that now,” said Merritt.
Mayor Hogsett’s office sent the following statement in response to Merritt’s announcement:
“This November, Indianapolis voters will have the opportunity to make their voices heard. Should Senator Merritt win his party’s nomination, I look forward to a spirited conversation.”
On Thursday, no other Republicans had filed for candidacy in the mayoral election. The deadline to file is Feb. 8.
Below watch Merritt’s full announcement: