Indiana Week in Review

Indiana slashes available pre-k enrollment numbers to less than half of the current enrollment. Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett resists calls to resign over late-night texts to women connected to a sexual harassment and assault investigation against his former chief of staff. Concerns about managed care for those over 60 as Medicaid costs expected to run $300 million over budget. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Republican Whitley Yates, Democrat Lindsay Haake, Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle, and Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

Governor Braun fires three elected IU trustees, despite previously saying he would allow them to serve out the remainder of their terms. The Indiana Department of Education unveils the first draft of a new A-F school grading system. Braun freezes an initial $25 million allocation for the nonprofit Elevate Ventures, who was set to invest in growth-stage companies for the IEDC. Guest host Lauren Chapman is joined by Democrat Elise Shrock, Republican Mike O'Brien, Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers, and Kaitlin Lange of the Indianapolis Star to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

President Trump approves the sale of U.S. Steel to Japan's Nippon Steel for $14.9 billion. Secretary of State Diego Morales investigated over footage used in a campaign launch video. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins defended the Trump administration's planned 15% cut to the VA during a visit to Indianapolis' Roudebush Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Ann DeLaney, Republican Mike O'Brien, Leslie Bonilla Muñiz of the Indiana Capital Chronicle, and Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

The U.S. House approves major cuts to SNAP that may leave over half a million Hoosiers without access to some or all of their current benefits. House-approved federal Medicaid work reporting requirements may render Indiana's new reporting requirements redundant. Advocates split on a proposal to close down a Duke Energy coal plant and replace it with a $3 billion natural gas plant. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Lara Beck, Republican Whitley Yates, Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers, and Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

The IEDC sells off two properties purchased for the controversial LEAP district at a loss. Indiana AG Todd Rokita threatens to sue the University of Notre Dame over DEI efforts he says violate a 2023 Supreme Court ruling. Two voter and civic advocacy groups join with an Indiana University student to sue the state over the recently-passed ban on student IDs in voting. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Republican Whitley Yates, Democrat Ann DeLaney, Leslie Bonilla Muñiz of the Indiana Capital Chronicle, and Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

A bill threatening the non-profit status of several hospital systems over the cost of care, though the impact on healthcare costs is unclear. Governor Braun signs an anti-DEI bill into law that critics say twists the meaning of diversity, equity, and inclusion into something they are not. Lawmakers revive the A-to-F school ranking system with rollout expected by the end of 2026. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Republican Mike O'Brien, Democrat Elise Shrock, Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle, and Oseye Boyd of Mirror Indy to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

Governor Mike Braun reflects on the 2025 legislative session and calls his first 100 days in office a “wonderful opening act”. Micah Beckwith praises the Three-Fifths Compromise as a “great move”, drawing backlash from various groups as well as the Governor himself. A last-minute addition to the budget bill gives Braun full control of the Indiana University Board of Trustees. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Karen Tallian, Republican Mike O'Brien, Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers, and Ebony Chappel of Free Press Indiana to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

A $2 cigarette tax and cuts to both public health and higher education in the Indiana state budget. Governor Braun launches a forensic audit of the IEDC after allegations of ethics violations and self-dealing by staffers. An energy bill offering tax incentives to coal plants and small nuclear reactors heads to Braun's desk amid questions over the budget shortfall. 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 and discuss this week's top stories.

State Revenue Forecasts project a $2.4 billion loss in revenue, the worst forecast since the Great Recession. Governor Mike Braun unveils significant changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program that includes removing candy and soft drinks and limiting eligibility. The property tax overhaul is signed in to law, giving most Hoosiers a credit of up to $300. 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's top stories.

The House GOP passes a major property tax overhaul with most counties expected to see more money than in previous years. The Senate GOP budget proposal does not expand the voucher program, lowers income eligibility for the Child Care and Development Fund, and increases the amount held in reserves. A House Committee scales back controversial measures to eliminate DEI programs. Guest Host Lauren Chapman is joined by Democrat Ann DeLaney, Republican Mike O'Brien, Oseye Boyd of Mirror Indy, and Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

A bill to force school board candidates to declare a political party is narrowly approved in the House. A bill aimed at ending the statute of limitations for rape and child molestation is gutted by a House committee. Secretary of State Diego Morales continues to refuse to answer questions around the funding for a 10-day India trip. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Elise Shrock, Republican Mike O'Brien, Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers, and Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

Former State Senator Carlin Yoder mulls a primary challenge to Senator Todd Young in the 2028 elections. House Democrats unveil a series of property tax reform amendments to support schools and provide relief for homeowners. A House committee approves a bill to ban student IDs as valid identification at polling places. 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 and discuss this week's top stories.

Governor Mike Braun joins hundreds who gathered at the statehouse to rally for significant property tax relief. Former State Senator Karen Tallian is named the new Indiana Democratic Party chair, replacing outgoing chairman Mike Schmuhl. Federal Democratic Senators led by Minority Leader Chuck Schumer help advance a continuing budget resolution amidst outcry from many in the party. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Republican Chris Mitchem, Democrat Ann DeLaney, Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle, and Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

Proposals for a major property tax system overhaul to completely change how property taxes are calculated. An education campaign on the role of pharmacy benefits managers in lowering the costs of prescription medication. A proposal to raise teacher minimum pay to $45,000 a year raises questions as to how schools would afford the move under current budgets. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Elise Shrock, Republican Mike O'Brien, Oseye Boyd of Mirror Indy, and Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

Spending on the controversial LEAP district nears $1 billion, with only Eli Lilly so far committed to the site. The Senate approves a study committee to look at relocating Indiana's lowest performing casino from the southeast corner to one of three more profitable regions. A proposal to introduce consumer protections against medical debt collection fails to advance in the Senate. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Republican Mike O'Brien, Democrat Elise Shrock, Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle, and Kayla Dwyer of the Indianapolis Star to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

The midpoint of the 2025 legislative session. The Indiana Senate approves a bill to ban DEI initiatives in state government and local schools. The House advances a ban on transgender women in college sports. The Senate approves a bill that would require school board candidates to declare a political party affiliation. IPBS Digital Editor Lauren Chapman guest-hosts as Democrat Ann DeLaney, Republican Mike O'Brien, Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers, and Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle debate and discuss this week's top stories.

The House GOP advances their budget proposal with new money for DCS and the Department of Corrections but no new tax cuts. A controversial immigration bill passes the House. Under the bill, the attorney general would have the power to go after businesses that employ undocumented immigrants. Governor Braun threatens to veto major property tax reform if it doesn't “improve”. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Republican Chris Mitchem, Democrat Ann DeLaney, Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle, and Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

The property tax reform bill sees a major overhaul in a Senate committee, focusing savings on older Hoosiers and disabled veterans. A committee approves major changes to the Healthy Indiana Plan, reintroducing work requirements and an enrollment cap. Medicaid legislation expands contraceptive access but limits the scope of birth control methods offered. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Republican Mike O'Brien, Democrat Ann DeLaney, Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle, and Oseye Boyd of Mirror Indy to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

More disciplinary charges filed against Attorney General Todd Rokita over statements made to the Indiana Supreme Court. Governor Braun calls on local leaders to prove their claims that his property tax proposal would harm their budgets and cut public safety dollars. A controversial education bill to promote “fostering a national identity” receives little support in committee. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Republican Mike O'Brien, Democrat Lindsay Haake, Leslie Bonilla Muñiz of the Indiana Capital Chronicle, and Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

A major expansion of the gambling industry would fully legalize online gambling and lottery. Proposed legislation would move municipal elections to presidential election years, but critics say that may bury local candidates. Governor Mike Braun directs all state law enforcement agencies to comply with Trump's deportation efforts, though state law already requires this. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Republican Mike O'Brien, Democrat Elise Shrock, Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle, and Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

Governor Braun orders the Indiana Department of Health to resume releasing individual terminated pregnancy reports, as it did before the near-total ban took effect. A Senate bill aimed at extending individual income tax cuts contingent on state revenue secures nearly unanimous committee approval. A proposal to slash unemployment insurance benefits by nearly 50%. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Republican Mike O'Brien, Democrat Ann DeLaney, Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle, and Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers debate and discuss this week's top stories.

Governor Mike Braun unveiled a state budget proposal that provides nearly 700 million dollars in tax relief. He also signed a series of executive orders this week that begin to remake the administrative side of state government. Also this week, the Indiana House GOP's 2025 legislative priorities, unveiled this week, hope to build on previous initiatives that aimed to bring down health care and housing costs. And, a cannabis legalization coalition says moving Indiana directly to full adult legal use is the best way to ensure a regulated market that also addresses public safety concerns.

A major Medicaid overhaul, including moving over 180,000 Hoosiers to a waitlist and adding work requirements for many Medicaid participants. Statehouse Democrats lay out their 2025 session priorities, including healthcare, housing and public education. State officials call for an end to funding for Indiana University over connections to the Kinsey Institute. 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.

A look back at the legacy of Governor Eric Holcomb. State legislative leaders call for local communities to take action on key issues before coming to the Statehouse. Just three initiatives under the public health funding program generated nearly $100 million in savings for Indiana by preventing injuries and premature deaths. 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's top stories.

A look back at 2024. A historic presidential race between Republican Donald Trump and Democrats Kamala Harris and Joe Biden. The fight for Indiana's open governor seat. An unusual campaign ends with Micah Beckwith edging out Julie McGuire, Mike Braun's hand-picked lieutenant governor candidate. 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 to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

Indiana Senate Democrats oust Greg Taylor from his leadership role amid mounting sexual harassment allegations. Lawmakers are cautiously optimistic after a modest revenue forecast is released. Indiana's billion-dollar Medicaid forecasting error leads to frustration and calls for a new Medicaid forecast vendor. 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's top stories.

New high school diploma requirements approved after months of revisions. Indiana re-implements a wait list for two of its child care voucher programs after an increase in participants by over 30,000 children in two years. A report shows Secretary of State Diego Morales' office has spent about $4 million in less than two years on no-bid IT contracts. 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 to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

Mike Braun's 2025 gubernatorial agenda, which features proposals for property tax relief and several changes to the health care system. Randy Head steps down as the Indiana GOP chair. The Indiana Charter Innovation Center aims to secure property tax funds for charter schools, a move opposed by the Indiana State Teacher's Association and traditional public school advocates. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Elise Shrock, Republican Mike O'Brien, Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers, and Leslie Bonilla Muñiz of the Indiana Capital Chronicle to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

A look back at the Governor's race between Republican- and eventual winner- Mike Braun, Democrat Jennifer McCormick, and Libertarian Donald Rainwater. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Ann DeLaney, Republicans Mike O'Brien and Chris Mitchem, Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers, Oseye Boyd of Mirror Indy, and Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle to debate and discuss the top stories of the 2024 gubernatorial election.

Senate Democratic Leader Greg Taylor faces sexual harassment allegations from three women. A state task force makes their recommendations on changes to Indiana tax law targeting property taxes, but cautions that any changes will not be felt until 2026. A committee tasked with making legislative recommendations on Medicaid once again released a report with no recommendations. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Ann DeLaney, Republican Mike O'Brien, Kayla Dwyer of the Indianapolis Star, and Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

Jim Banks prepares to enter the U.S. Senate. Micah Beckwith criticizes Senator Todd Young and Senator-elect Jim Banks over reports the pair cast ballots to elect John Thune as Senate Majority Leader. Pamela Whitten faces criticism over her handling of Israel-Palestine protests at Indiana University, which also resulted in an overwhelming vote of no-confidence from IU faculty. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Republican Whitley Yates, Democrat Ann DeLaney, Ebony Chappel of Free Press Indiana, and Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

A review of this week's election results. Republicans see major gains, with Donald Trump taking the White House, Jim Banks elected to the U.S. Senate, Mike Braun succeeds Eric Holcomb as Governor, and Todd Rokita retains his position as Indiana Attorney General. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Republican Mike O'Brien, Democrat Ann DeLaney, Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle, and Oseye Boyd of Mirror Indy to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

Democrat Valerie McCray and Libertarian Andrew Horning face off in a debate for Indiana's open U.S. Senate seat. A legislative study committee makes recommendations to tackle rising health care costs. Kelley School of Business projects optimism for 2025, but warns Trump's proposed tariffs could ignite a global trade war that would harm Indiana's economy. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Republican Chris Mitchem, Democrat Elise Shrock, Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle, and Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

Gubernatorial candidates Mike Braun, Jennifer McCormick and Donald Rainwater debate for the last time before the election. More than half of the Indiana Supreme Court is on the ballot as voters decide whether to keep them on the bench. Multiple felonies of a former Clark County Sheriff prompt proposal of a new ethics reform legislation in order to show more transparency. 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's top stories.

Attorney General candidates Todd Rokita and Destiny Wells face off in a contentious debate. Mike Braun urges that the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission reject the conversion of an AES power plant from coal-fired to natural gas. Secretary of State Diego Morales and Todd Rokita question the citizenship of over half a million registered voters about three weeks before Election Day. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Lindsay Haake, Republican Chris Mitchem, Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers, and Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

Mike Braun unveils his public safety plan, including increased criminal penalties and mental health access. Jennifer McCormick's abortion proposal includes changes to the state ban and medical records privacy protections. Indiana officials refuse to disclose cost of new execution drug as the state seeks to carry out the death penalty for the first time in 15 years. 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 Chronicle to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

Mike Braun, Jennifer McCormick, and Donald Rainwater face off in a gubernatorial debate. Mike Braun's campaign releases an attack ad against democrat Jennifer McCormick using a doctored image in violation of state law. The Indiana Behavioral Health Commission releases a new report calling for improved funding for services and addressing employment shortfalls. Host Brandon Smith is joined by democrat Elise Shrock, Republican Mike O'Brien, Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers, and Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

Senator Mike Braun proposes expansions to healthcare legislation targeting prior authorizations and regulations. Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jennifer McCormick releases an economic development strategy focused on local input and small business support. Indiana loses over $4 billion per year due to affordable child care. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Ann DeLaney, Republican Whitley Yates, Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers, and Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

Two recent polls show vastly different results for statewide races- with Democrats either tying in races for governor and attorney general, or being defeated by Republicans by a large margin. A lawsuit accuses healthcare providers and hospitals of mass Medicaid fraud costing the state millions. Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike Braun releases an education plan. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Republican Chris Mitchem, Democrat Ann DeLaney, Niki Kelly and Leslie Bonilla Muñiz of the Indiana Capital Chronicle to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

A county judge rules against abortion care providers seeking to expand access to abortion in Indiana. Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump square off in their first- and possibly only- debate ahead of the November election. Jennifer McCormick unveils a plan to gradually roll out legalized cannabis, focusing on medical use before recreational use. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Ann DeLaney, Republican Mike O'Brien, Ebony Chappel of Free Press Indiana, and Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

Governor Holcomb visits Ukraine to bolster ties and sign a memorandum of understanding with a Ukrainian province. Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jennifer McCormick proposes ethics reforms that would place limits on lobbyists and create new sexual harassment reporting systems. Vaccination rates for toddlers falls for the first time since before the pandemic. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Democrat Elise Shrock, Republican Jennifer Hallowell, Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers, and Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

Democratic gubernatorial candidate- and former State Superintendent of Public Instruction- Jennifer McCormick unveils her education plan. Local governments face nearly $2 billion annually in road maintenance costs over the next 10 years. Former Clark County Sheriff Jamey Noel pleads guilty to 27 felonies related to his time as sheriff and in running an emergency services company. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Republican Chris Mitchem, Democrat Ann DeLaney, Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers, and Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

IREAD-3 scores show some improvement, but still fall well below pre-pandemic levels. A federal judge dismisses a lawsuit to Senate Enrolled Act 202, which requires university faculty to teach opposing political viewpoints or risk losing tenure. The Indiana Chamber of Commerce calls for a new water planning team amid continued uncertainty over the LEAP district pipeline. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Republican Mike O'Brien, Democrat Ann DeLaney, Leslie Bonilla Muñiz of the Indiana Capital Chronicle, and Jon Schwantes of Indiana Lawmakers to debate and discuss this week's top stories.

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jennifer McCormick unveils her tax relief proposal. The Indiana Department of Education releases a new draft of its high school diploma overhaul. Lieutenant Governor candidates Republican Micah Beckwith, Democrat Terry Goodin, and Libertarian Tonya Hudson debate at the Indiana State Fair. Host Brandon Smith is joined by Republican Chris Mitchem, Democrat Ann DeLaney, Niki Kelly of the Indiana Capital Chronicle, and Ebony Chappel of Free Press Indiana to debate and discuss this week's top stories.