Indiana Week in Review
697 episodes - English - Latest episode: 2 days ago - ★★★★ - 55 ratingsHoosier Democrats, Republicans and insiders talk candidly about issues, the Indiana Statehouse and everything in between on Indiana Week In Review from WFYI Public Media. Join host Brandon Smith and political experts as they dive into the debates shaping Indiana. You'll get policy updates on policy, the state legislature and more, from the left, right and middle of the aisle.
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Episodes
Leaders React to Trump Assassination Attempt
July 19, 2024 18:48 - 26 minutes - 24.5 MBIndiana’s political leaders react to the assassination attempt against Donald Trump. Democrats formally choose Terry Goodin and Destiny Wells as their lieutenant governor and attorney general nominees. I-LEARN scores show some improvement in reading levels, but increased struggles with mathematics. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Ann DeLaney, Republican Chris Mitchem, Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers, and Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle to debate and discuss this week...
Chief Justice Loretta Rush Seeks Third Term
July 12, 2024 19:25 - 26 minutes - 25.7 MBLoretta Rush seeks a third term as Chief Justice of the Indiana Supreme Court. Fewer Indiana high school students enroll in FAFSA, with at least some blame placed on glitches in the rollout of a new version of the application. The Gary Community School Corporation officially shifts back to local control seven years after a state takeover. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Ann DeLaney, Republican Mike O’Brien, Oseye Boyd of Mirror Indy, and Leslie Bonilla Muñiz of the Indiana Capital ...
Supreme Court Gives Trump Near-Total Immunity
July 05, 2024 17:24 - 26 minutes - 25.8 MBThe U.S. Supreme Court grants presidents near-total immunity and sets a high bar for prosecution. A judge invalidates Indiana’s 2020 Medicaid expansion waiver, ending Healthy Indiana Plan Plus payments for the foreseeable future. Libertarian gubernatorial candidate Donald Rainwater proposes changing the state constitution to cap property taxes. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Republican Mike O’Brien, Democrat Elise Shrock, Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle, and Whitney Downard of ...
J.D. Ford Passes on Lieutenant Governor Bid
June 28, 2024 18:27 - 26 minutes - 25.5 MBSenator J.D. Ford announces that he will not run for lieutenant governor against conservative Democrat Terry Goodin. Former state legislator Randy Head is elected unanimously as chair of the Indiana Republican Party. Governor Eric Holcomb and A.G. Todd Rokita announce the state will seek to resume executions after a 15 year pause. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Ann DeLaney, Republican Whitley Yates, Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers, and Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicl...
Micah Beckwith Named Braun’s Running Mate
June 21, 2024 19:30 - 26 minutes - 64.2 MBChristian nationalist Micah Beckwith chosen as Mike Braun’s gubernatorial running mate over Braun’s hand-picked candidate Julie McGuire. Jennifer McCormick names conservative Democrat Terry Goodin as her pick for lieutenant governor. The state makes further changes that will impact how families of medically complex children receive Medicaid benefits. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Ann DeLaney, Republican Mike O’Brien, Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers, and Niki Kelly of the India...
Nearly $100M for LEAP District Expansion
June 14, 2024 21:08 - 26 minutes - 64 MBThe state approves nearly $100M to expand the controversial LEAP district. An anti-abortion group sues the state health department to regain access to terminated pregnancy reports. Indiana Republicans gather for the state party convention.
Todd Rokita Threatens to Sue Sanctuary Cities
June 07, 2024 16:36 - 26 minutes - 64 MBTodd Rokita threatens to sue Gary, East Chicago, West Lafayette and Monroe County over “sanctuary city” ban. Gubernatorial candidates Mike Braun, Jennifer McCormick, and Donald Rainwater agree to at least one televised debate. Rokita weighs in on the controversy surrounding Indianapolis’ dueling soccer stadium plans, with the Indy Eleven stadium in question as the City-County Council seeks to build a Major League Soccer stadium. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Elise Shrock, Republi...
Donald J. Trump Found Guilty of 34 Charges
May 31, 2024 19:14 - 26 minutes - 64.2 MBDonald Trump found guilty in the New York business records case. A court hears final arguments on Indiana’s near-total abortion ban. Indiana spends nearly half a billion dollars on private schools through the voucher program, even though nearly 70% of students have no record of attending an Indiana public school. Indiana Public Broadcasting digital editor Lauren Chapman is joined by Democrat Ann DeLaney, Republican Mike O’Brien, Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers, and Ebony Chappel of Free ...
Families of Medically Complex Children Sue
May 24, 2024 18:33 - 26 minutes - 64.6 MBFamilies of medically complex children sue the FSSA to stop Medicaid changes that would impact their ability to provide care. Literacy training requirements for teachers change after backlash from educators. All counties in Indiana opt into the state public health initiative to address immunizations, chronic disease prevention, and maternal and child health issues. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Republican Ali Bartlett, Democrat Ann DeLaney, Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle, and...
The ACLU of Indiana Sues Purdue University
May 17, 2024 19:04 - 26 minutes - 25.7 MBThe ACLU sues Purdue University’s board of trustees over a new state law impacting tenure. Jim Banks attends a Mar-A-Lago fundraising lunch for Donald Trump that was largely viewed as an audition for potential running mates. A look ahead at this summer’s legislative study committees, who will be looking into issues ranging from school absenteeism to homeowners associations. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Ann DeLaney, Republican Chris Mitchem, Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers, an...
Mike Braun Wins the GOP Gubernatorial Primary
May 10, 2024 23:02 - 26 minutes - 12.8 MBMike Braun wins the GOP gubernatorial primary and names political newcomer Julie McGuire as his running mate. Democrat Valerie McCray becomes the first Black woman to be a nominee for U.S. Senate in Indiana history.
Protests at IU Over Israel’s War in Gaza
May 03, 2024 19:26 - 26 minutes - 12.8 MBIndiana University students protest Israel’s war in Gaza. Marijuana reclassification plans put pressure on the Indiana General Assembly to legalize use. A grassroots organization meets with the FSSA and Governor Holcomb over planned Medicaid cutbacks.
The Final GOP Gubernatorial Primary Debate
April 26, 2024 23:58 - 26 minutes - 12.7 MBThe final GOP gubernatorial primary debate sees sparks fly between candidates and moderator Jon Schwantes. The Indiana State Teachers Association pushes back on the state Department of Education’s science of reading training. Indiana’s largest teachers union endorses Democrat Jennifer McCormick for governor.
GOP Primary Sets New State Record for Cost
April 19, 2024 22:52 - 26 minutes - 12.8 MBIndiana’s six-way GOP primary is now the most expensive in state history, with over $35 million spent by candidates so far. Indiana University’s Bloomington faculty have overwhelmingly voted no confidence in IU President Pamela Whitten. An IndyStar report claims the state Democratic Party largely ignored sexual harassment allegations against state Senator Niezgodski.
Group Asks Democrats to Vote in GOP Primary
April 12, 2024 23:02 - 26 minutes - 12.8 MBReCenter Indiana, a centrist group aimed at moderating state government, asks democrats to vote in the GOP primary. Governor Holcomb announces new READI grant recipients, distributing $500 million to programs across the state. Hoosiers with disabilities or who wish to age in place will have a harder time accessing the Aged and Disabled waiver from the FSSA.
Appeals Court Rules Against the Abortion Ban
April 05, 2024 21:54 - 26 minutes - 12.7 MBAn appeals court rules the state’s near-total abortion ban likely violates RFRA protections, siding with a trial court. South Korean tech company SK Hynix to build its first U.S. semiconductor plant at Purdue Research Park in West Lafayette. Mike Braun’s U.S. Senate campaign receives the second-largest fine in Senate campaign history over disclosure irregularities.
Holcomb Calls Out Gubernatorial Hopefuls
March 29, 2024 22:21 - 27 minutes - 12.8 MBGovernor Eric Holcomb calls for Republican gubernatorial candidates to provide details on their positions on issues commonly addressed by the office of the governor. Controversial funding changes for the Indiana Gaming Commission. Todd Rokita presents a report claiming the state used “faulty” data to justify the Stay-At-Home order at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Gov. Holcomb’s Final Veto
March 22, 2024 22:18 - 26 minutes - 12.7 MBGov. Holcomb vetoes a bill that would define and ban antisemitism in Indiana public schools. Gubernatorial candidate Brad Chambers unveils his economic plan. Fellow candidate Jamie Reitenour decries her exclusion from televised debate. Mike Braun picks up what could be a key endorsement for his own campaign for governor. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Ann DeLaney, Republican Mike O'Brien, Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers, and Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle to debate...
The First Republican Gubernatorial Debate
March 15, 2024 18:33 - 26 minutes - 12.8 MBThe first GOP gubernatorial primary debate as Mike Braun, Brad Chambers, Suzanne Crouch, Eric Doden, Curtis Hill, and Jamie Reitenour vie for their party’s nomination. A compromise struck on the antisemitism bill removes the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s examples of antisemitism. Disqualification language for attorney general candidates removed from final bill.
Mike Braun Leads in GOP Primary Poll
March 09, 2024 01:56 - 26 minutes - 12.9 MBMike Braun leads in a Republican gubernatorial primary poll. Indiana’s public access counselor could see a significant change in duties and indefinite term limits in a bill headed to Holcomb’s desk. The state legislature approves a bill limiting the governor’s ability to extend statewide disaster emergency declarations. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Ann DeLaney, Republican Mike O’Brien, Oseye Boyd of Mirror Indy, and Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle.
New Limits on Debt Protections for Hoosiers
March 02, 2024 02:49 - 26 minutes - 12.8 MBJohn Rust is removed from the Republican senate primary ballot after both the Indiana Election Commission and the Indiana Supreme Court rule against him. New limits on debt protections for Hoosiers as the statute of limitations on bank charge disputes lowers from six years to two. Public pension recipients will not receive a 13th check for the second year in a row.
Lawmakers seek to enshrine new protections for gun makers and sellers
February 23, 2024 20:25 - 26 minutes - 12.8 MBThe Senate GOP seeks to enshrine new protections for gun makers and sellers, in an effort to kill a lawsuit by the city of Gary. A senate committee unanimously approves new wording for the antisemitism bill to clarify that it does not bar criticism aimed at the state of Israel. A proposal for limits on attorney general candidates who face sanctions from the state Supreme Court. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Republican Mike O’Brien, Democrat Ann DeLaney, Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital C...
GOP Lawmakers Consider Higher Ed Changes
February 16, 2024 20:29 - 26 minutes - 12.8 MBRepublican lawmakers propose tenure changes to higher education and seek trustee appointments on university boards. The Indiana Supreme Court hears arguments in a ballot access lawsuit to determine if John Rust can run for senate on the Republican ticket. U.S. House Republicans impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas on their second try by a single vote. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Ann DeLaney, Republican Chris Mitchem, Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers, and Nik...
Victoria Spartz Flips on Reelection
February 09, 2024 20:33 - 26 minutes - 12.9 MBVictoria Spartz reverses course on reelection, announcing she will run for another term. A bill repealing wetlands protections heads to Governor Holcomb’s desk this week, without input from wetlands experts or advocates. Todd Rokita launches an online platform that will allow anyone to submit perceived examples of race, gender, and political ideologies being taught in public schools. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Lindsay Haake, Republican Mike O’Brien, Oseye Boyd of Mirror Indy, ...
House Seeks Child Care Regulation Changes
February 02, 2024 21:35 - 26 minutes - 12.8 MBThe Indiana House approves a bill to roll back child care regulations for unlicensed providers. A tenant protection bill failed in a Senate committee, with at least one senator arguing that it does not contain protections for landlords. A bill to update state Medicaid policy was not called down for a House floor vote, failing to meet a deadline to advance. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Elis Shrock, Republican Mike O’Brien, Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers, and Niki Kelly of the...
Bill to Allow Chaplains in Public Schools
January 27, 2024 01:17 - 64 MBState Senate committee advances legislation that would allow religious chaplains to serve as public school counselors. House lawmakers consider legislation to scale back child labor laws in order to bring them in-line with federal regulations. Three virtual school administrators arrested for alleged scheme to defraud the Indiana Department of Education of over $44 million. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Republican Mike O’Brien, Democrat Ann DeLaney, Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chroni...
House Lawmakers Advance Antisemitism Ban
January 20, 2024 00:53 - 12.9 MBBeth White announces a bid for Indiana attorney general, challenging incumbent Todd Rokita and fellow Democrat Destiny Wells. A new bill aimed at defining and banning antisemitism in public educational institutions advances from the Indiana House to the Senate. A Senate committee advances legislation limiting the use of prior authorization by insurance companies.
Gov Holcomb’s Final State of the State
January 12, 2024 22:57 - 12.7 MBGovernor Holcomb announces that his READI 2.0 initiative will receive a $250 million boost from the Lilly Endowment. Larry Bucshon and Greg Pence will not seek reelection in 2024, joining Victoria Spartz and Jim Banks, who is running for Mike Braun’s open U.S. Senate seat. Republicans in the House and Senate lay out their agendas, focusing on education and workforce development.
Error Causes $1 Billion Medicaid Shortfall
January 05, 2024 20:10 - 12.8 MBAn Indiana Medicaid error leads to a $1 billion shortfall in the state budget, with the issue largely centered on home and community-based long-term care services. Governor Holcomb teases his final legislative agenda. Outgoing Republican mayors Duke Bennett of Terre Haute and Jim Lienhoop of Columbus say local officials need fewer state restrictions in running municipalities.
A Look Ahead to the 2024 Elections
December 29, 2023 21:38 - 12.7 MBA look ahead at the 2024 elections. Mike Braun, Brad Chambers, Eric Doden, Curtis Hill, and Jamie Reitenour compete for the GOP gubernatorial nomination. Jim Banks, John Rust, Marc Carmichael, and Valerie McCray seek their party’s nomination for the U.S. Senate race. Todd Rokita faces a challenge from Democrat Destiny Wells in the Attorney General’s race.
A Look Back At 2023
December 21, 2023 14:04 - 12.8 MBA look back at 2023. A big budget session delivers major investments to public and mental health and creates near universal access to school vouchers. Mike Braun, Brad Chambers, Suzanne Crouch, Eric Doden, Curtis Hill, and Jamie Reitenour compete for the GOP gubernatorial nomination. The Indiana Supreme Court rules the near-total abortion ban does not violate the state constitution, and more. Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Ann DeLaney, Republican Mike O’Brien, Jon Schwantes of Indiana ...
GOP Governor Hopefuls Discuss the Issues
December 15, 2023 20:36 - 12.7 MBDemocrat Keith Potts drops out of the U.S. Senate race, citing “new professional opportunities.” GOP gubernatorial candidates Mike Braun, Brad Chambers, Suzanne Crouch, Eric Doden and Curtis Hill participate in a panel discussion to lay out their positions on key issues. Indiana shows improvement in most economic areas, but is outpaced by other states. Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Ann DeLaney, Republican Jennifer Hallowell, Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers, and Ebony Chappel of Fre...
Students Advance After Failing I-READ
December 08, 2023 22:56 - 12.8 MBThe IDOE says too many third-grade students who fail the I-READ-3 exam are advanced to fourth grade. A Marion County judge rules in favor of John Rust and his primary challenge against Congressman Jim Banks after local GOP leaders refused to allow him on the ballot. A legislative task force recommends new policies and procedures to weaken the rulemaking ability of government agencies.
Another Investigation into Todd Rokita
December 01, 2023 22:31 - 12.7 MBThe Indiana Attorney Disciplinary Commission launches a new investigation into Todd Rokita following comments he made after a public reprimand by the state Supreme Court. Democrat Destiny Wells launches her campaign for Indiana Attorney General. Republican and Democratic lawmakers signal a quieter legislative session in 2024, focusing on small changes to existing policies.
The 2024 Governor's Race So Far
November 21, 2023 22:44 - 12.7 MBOn this special holiday episode, we look back at previous discussions on the 2024 governor’s race. Curtis Hill and Brad Chambers launch their campaigns, Suzanne Crouch backs income tax elimination, and the presumptive democratic nominee Jennifer McCormick shows competitiveness in a self-funded poll.
A government shutdown averted. A former lawmaker pleads guilty to corruption charges.
November 17, 2023 23:42 - 12.7 MBU.S. Speaker Mike Johnson’s temporary spending plan passes with unanimous support - but a majority of Indiana’s GOP delegation vote against it. Former Representative Sean Eberhart pleads guilty to federal corruption charges over Spectacle Gaming job offer. Eric Doden releases the first significant attack ad of the 2024 GOP gubernatorial primary, targeting Mike Braun over qualified immunity.
Both parties celebrate election wins. State Treasurer invests heavily in Israeli bonds.
November 10, 2023 21:39 - 12.7 MBBoth Democrats and Republicans celebrate municipal election wins. State Treasurer Daniel Elliott courts controversy with a purchase of $35 million in Israeli bonds, with Jewish Voice for Peace Indiana calling the purchase ‘supporting genocide of Palestinians’. A report reveals that the Monroe County Schools Corporation paid Jennifer McCormick $144,000 for no-bid consulting work. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Republican Mike O’Brien, Democrat Ann DeLaney, Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital ...
Mike Pence Suspends Presidential Campaign
November 03, 2023 04:00 - 12.7 MBMike Pence suspends his presidential campaign after failing to gain traction. Todd Rokita is publicly reprimanded for comments about Dr. Caitlin Bernard. Donald Trump endorses Senator Mike Braun’s 2024 gubernatorial campaign.
Mike Johnson Elected U.S. House Speaker
October 27, 2023 04:00 - 12.7 MBMike Johnson elected U.S. House speaker, ending a three-week vacancy with unanimous support from the GOP. Republican gubernatorial candidate Brad Chambers proposes new limits on social media – including stricter age verification and limiting data collection for all under the age of 18. A legislative study committee recommends COLA increases or a 13th check for public retiree pensions. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Ann DeLaney, Republican Chris Mitchem, Jon Schwantes of Indiana La...
UAW Strike Leads to Kokomo Layoffs
October 20, 2023 04:00 - 12.7 MBThe UAW strike in Ohio leads to 300 Stellantis workers being temporarily laid off. A legal dispute between a teachers union in Richmond and their school corporation over supplemental pay may have wider implications. Three republicans in Indianapolis suburbs announce they will not seek reelection - or any other elected office.
State Leaders Show Support for Israel
October 13, 2023 04:00 - 12.7 MBGovernor Eric Holcomb, Senator Todd Young, and Senator Mike Braun declare support for Israel after terrorist attacks this week left hundreds dead and more than a thousand injured. Stellantis will build a second EV battery plant in Kokomo, adding a combined 2,800 jobs in the region. Indiana receives $3 million for environmental programs aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Kevin McCarthy Ousted in Historic Vote
October 06, 2023 04:00 - 12.7 MBU.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy ousted in historic vote. Victoria Spartz threatens to resign from Congress over the rising national debt. 2024 gubernatorial candidates discuss the controversial LEAP district.
Indiana Braces for a Federal Shutdown
September 29, 2023 04:00 - 12.7 MBIndiana braces for a federal shutdown, but Governor Eric Holcomb remains hopeful that a deal can be reached in time. A legislative study committee investigates the cost and benefits of implementing a permanent, yearly COLA increase for public retirees. Gubernatorial candidate Eric Doden rejects the Indiana Chamber of Commerce’s recommendation to consolidate small, rural schools.
Todd Rokita Faces Disciplinary Complaint
September 22, 2023 04:00 - 12.8 MBDemocrat Ann DeLaney, Republican Mike O’Brien, Indiana Lawmakers’ Jon Schwantes and Indiana Local News Initiative’s Oseye Boyd debate and discuss this week’s top stories: The Indiana Supreme Court Disciplinary Commission asks the court to discipline Attorney General Todd Rokita for comments he made about Dr. Caitlin Bernard on Fox News. A new report shows that the mental health of teen girls is at a dangerous low. Four lawmakers resign in the middle of their terms — including two in their f...
House GOP Launches Impeachment Inquiry
September 15, 2023 04:00 - 12.7 MBKevin McCarthy launches an impeachment inquiry against President Joe Biden, despite no evidence yet uncovered of any crimes. US Senator Mike Braun is endorsed by Club for Growth for his 2024 Gubernatorial campaign, and endorses Congressman Jim Banks to fill his open Senate seat. The Indiana Chamber of Commerce names Vanessa Green Sinders president and CEO after Kevin Brinegar’s retirement.
New Indiana Public Health Funding
September 08, 2023 04:00 - 12.7 MBAll but six Indiana counties opt to take new funding from the state under this year's public health system overhaul. Brad Chambers enters the Republican field of gubernatorial candidates. Democratic candidate Jennifer McCormick's campaign shares a poll showing her in tight races with some Republican hopefuls. Indiana schools grapple with how to address generative AI like Chat GPT.
Parents Protest Autism Therapy Cuts
September 01, 2023 04:00 - 12.7 MBParents ask Governor Holcomb to stop a proposal that may reduce access to therapy for children with autism. Loss of wetlands raises risk for flooding. State courts decline to hear candidate affiliation law challenge.
Crouch Backs Push to Eliminate Income Tax
August 25, 2023 04:00 - 12.7 MBGOP gubernatorial primary candidate Suzanne Crouch backs a push to eliminate the individual income tax, but offers few details on how to handle the $8 billion loss in state finances. Vivek Ramaswamy became the focus of attacks in Fox News’ GOP debate, sparring frequently with Mike Pence. Indiana Republican Party Chair Kyle Hupfer announces he is stepping down after half a decade in the role.
Pence addresses Trump’s latest indictment
August 18, 2023 04:00 - 12.7 MBSpeaking to the GOP National Legislative Conference, Mike Pence addressed Donald Trump’s latest indictment in Georgia for election interference. Former Indiana Secretary of Commerce Brad Chambers announced he will throw is hat into the ring for the GOP Gubernatorial Primaries. Governor Eric Holcomb defends his office’s move to block Dr. Caitlin Bernard from receiving a Torchbearer Award.
Indiana Chamber of Commerce’s Economic Plan
August 11, 2023 04:00 - 12.7 MBThe Indiana Chamber of Commerce unveils a new economic vision plan for the next twelve years, including workforce development and educational attainment. Todd Rokita updates his 'Parents Bill of Rights' to include religious expression in the classroom and calls separation of church and state “a myth”. The Big Ten adds Washington and Oregon, other teams head for the Big 12, and the Pac-12 dissolves.