Make wishtv.com your home page

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett seeking second term

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — The mayor of Indianapolis is running for re-election.

Joe Hogsett, a Democrat, told supporters Wednesday that he will seek a second term in 2019. He took credit for a balanced budget, more police officers and higher spending on city infrastructure.

The mayor talked about some of his platform for another term. That included creating a regional partnership to fund street repairs long-term and cracking down on poverty to help reduce violence.

Meanwhile, critics of the mayor include Marion County Republican Chairman Jim Merritt. He pointed to problems like the potholes last winter and Indianapolis’s murder rate. A pillar of the mayor’s first campaign was reducing the crime rate. 

“Nearly three years ago, and with great fanfare, Joe Hogsett became Mayor of Indianapolis. Since then our City has seen our infrastructure crumble and our neighborhoods shaken by record-setting homicides.  Sadly the self-described ‘public safety Mayor’ has been anything but,” said Merritt. 

“With today’s seemingly reluctant decision to seek re-election, we look forward to a robust discussion on his record and how new leadership can make our city a safer and a more vibrant place to raise a family and pursue your dreams.”

  • WATCH: Eric Feldman will have a report on News 8 at 10 and 11

Hogsett reported $2.3 million in his campaign fund last January. His next report is due next month. State Sen. Jim Merritt, who is chairman of the Marion County Republican Party, says the size of the mayor’s campaign chest could keep some challengers on the sideline.

But Merritt said Hogsett must answer for a disturbing number of homicides. Christopher Moore and John Schmitz have announced plans to run against Hogsett, but they have never held elected office.

Merritt said an announcement could come as soon as next week regarding possible challengers from the Marion County Republicans. 

Hogsett was a federal prosecutor before becoming mayor. He also served as Indiana secretary of state.