Indy Politics Podcast with Abdul-Hakim Shabazz

Nick Roberts, an Indianapolis city-county councilor and self-described data geek, joins Abdul to break down the surprising Democratic surge in Indiana’s recent primary. They dig into why traditionally red suburbs and counties are suddenly seeing more Democratic ballots, and how MAGA-aligned groups and anti-incumbent sentiment reshaped key races. Roberts explains why these numbers should have Republicans worried heading into November — and why Democrats think they finally have a real opening in Indiana.

Andrea Hunley details why she’s running for Indianapolis mayor, from a new governing style and data-driven outreach to her plans for the city’s budget, schools, and growth.

One served a Republican president. The other served a Democrat. Both came to Gainbridge Fieldhouse Wednesday morning with the same warning: the bipartisan rush to redraw congressional maps between censuses is corrosive to American democracy, and someone needs to break the fever.

One served a Republican president. The other served a Democrat. Both came to Gainbridge Fieldhouse Wednesday morning with the same warning: the bipartisan rush to redraw congressional maps between censuses is corrosive to American democracy, and someone needs to break the fever.

One served a Republican president. The other served a Democrat. Both came to Gainbridge Fieldhouse Wednesday morning with the same warning: the bipartisan rush to redraw congressional maps between censuses is corrosive to American democracy, and someone needs to break the fever.

The Indianapolis City-County Council voted 21-2 Monday night to approve Proposal No. 99, moving juvenile curfew hours earlier in Marion County and reviving a tool the council first deployed last summer in response to youth gun violence.

The Indianapolis City-County Council voted 21-2 Monday night to approve Proposal No. 99, moving juvenile curfew hours earlier in Marion County and reviving a tool the council first deployed last summer in response to youth gun violence.

The Indianapolis City-County Council voted 21-2 Monday night to approve Proposal No. 99, moving juvenile curfew hours earlier in Marion County and reviving a tool the council first deployed last summer in response to youth gun violence.

The Indianapolis City-County Council voted 21-2 Monday night to approve Proposal No. 99, moving juvenile curfew hours earlier in Marion County and reviving a tool the council first deployed last summer in response to youth gun violence.

Indy Politics speaks with a few Marion County candidates on the May primary ballot.

Indy Politics speaks with a few Marion County candidates on the May primary ballot.

Indy Politics speaks with a few Marion County candidates on the May primary ballot.

Economist Michael Hicks says Indiana is heading into a period of heightened economic strain, where a tightening labor market and mounting childcare challenges will collide with a potential global recession — even as the state’s balance sheet looks relatively strong.

A third pastor has left Life Church amid fallout from the child sex abuse scandal involving the family of lead pastor Nathan Peternell and his political ally, Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith. In an interview with 24Sight News, investigative reporter Tom LoBianco reported that Pastor Derek Lopez, who led the church's Fishers campus and was widely respected by congregants, has resigned — the third pastor to depart as the scandal unfolds.

Democratic challenger George Hornedo joins Indy Politics to explain why he’s taking on 18-year incumbent Andre Carson—and why he believes the 7th District is ready for a change.

Indiana lieutenant governor candidate Micah Beckwith is responding to renewed scrutiny tied to a child exploitation case involving the son of a pastor connected to his church. In a recent interview, Beckwith called the conduct “horrible” and “wicked,” and said he supports the legal consequences, which include prison time and lifetime sex offender registration. At the same time, Beckwith pushed back on other claims circulating publicly. He repeatedly denied allegations that explicit videos involving the pastor and his wife existed, saying, quote, “that’s not what actually happened.” He also acknowledged the individual attended church services a few times, but emphasized he was never left alone and was always accompanied by a family member. The comments come as newly released police body camera footage is drawing renewed attention to the case ahead of the 2026 election cycle.

Two parties. Two narratives. Mario Massillamany says Republicans are in control. Gary Snyder says not so fast. Listen as they clash on Indiana’s primary races, voter turnout, and whether change is coming.

Two parties. Two narratives. Mario Massillamany says Republicans are in control. Gary Snyder says not so fast. Listen as they clash on Indiana’s primary races, voter turnout, and whether change is coming.

**Alexandra Wilson joins Indy Politics to discuss how her local State Senate race in Terre Haute became a statewide — and even White House-level — political firestorm.** Wilson says she entered the SD-38 Republican primary over local issues like school funding and taxes, only to find herself facing ballot challenges, legal fights, and outreach from figures tied to both the White House and Indiana state government urging her to step aside. She talks candidly about the controversy surrounding her candidacy, accusations that she was a political “plant,” the fight to stay on the ballot, and what it has been like navigating all of it while eight and a half months pregnant. A fascinating look at how a local race became one of Indiana’s most talked-about political stories.

Gov. Mike Braun on Monday signed House Bill 1001, marking the latest step in his administration’s affordability agenda and putting local governments on notice that the state wants a harder look at the barriers driving up housing costs across Indiana.

Gov. Mike Braun on Monday signed House Bill 1001, marking the latest step in his administration’s affordability agenda and putting local governments on notice that the state wants a harder look at the barriers driving up housing costs across Indiana.

As warmer weather draws more people outside, Indianapolis is seeing an uptick in street activity and some violence — but overall, the city’s homicide numbers are trending closer to levels not seen in more than a decade, according to longtime anti-violence leader Rev. Charles Harrison of the Ten Point Coalition.

In Part Three of The Chase for 38, Indy Politics sits down with Alexandra Wilson for an extended interview about the calls, conversations, and behind-the-scenes outreach that shaped the Senate District 38 race. After examining the audio and political maneuvering in the first two installments, we now hear directly from the candidate at the center of the story.

Indy Politics has obtained exclusive audio of conversations between SD 38 candidate Alexandra Wilson and senior Trump-aligned political figures, including White House Political Director Matt Brasseaux, Deputy Chief of Staff James Blair, and outside conservative operatives. The recordings offer a rare behind-the-scenes look at how campaigns try to shape a race — discussing a possible “two-man race,” local issues, outside spending, and whether Wilson should stay in.

Indy Politics has obtained exclusive audio of conversations between SD 38 candidate Alexandra Wilson and senior Trump-aligned political figures, including White House Political Director Matt Brasseaux, Deputy Chief of Staff James Blair, and outside conservative operatives. The recordings offer a rare behind-the-scenes look at how campaigns try to shape a race — discussing a possible “two-man race,” local issues, outside spending, and whether Wilson should stay in.

Indianapolis City-County Councilor Ron Gibson is speaking publicly for the first time after gunfire struck his home in what police are calling a targeted attack, an incident that appears tied to the increasingly heated fight over a proposed data center in Martindale-Brightwood.

Indianapolis City-County Councilor Ron Gibson is speaking publicly for the first time after gunfire struck his home in what police are calling a targeted attack, an incident that appears tied to the increasingly heated fight over a proposed data center in Martindale-Brightwood.

Indiana Statehouse chaplain Pastor Matt Barnes joins Abdul to talk Easter, rising intra-party tensions, and why every law reflects a moral code. They dig into faith, politics, social media, and how lawmakers wrestle with what’s legal versus what they see as right or wrong.

As Illinois lawmakers return to Springfield this spring, one of the most closely watched issues is the future home of the Chicago Bears — and whether the team remains in Illinois or seriously considers a move just across the state line into Indiana.  The Bears currently play at Soldier Field under a lease with the Chicago Park District, but team leadership has made clear it wants a modern domed facility capable of hosting year-round events beyond NFL games.

Early voting is just days away, and this might be the most interesting Indiana primary in years. I’m joined by University of Indianapolis political scientist Dr. Laura Wilson to break down the heated political climate, rising threats and doxxing, Trump-backed challenges to GOP state senators over redistricting, and a wild Secretary of State race featuring Diego Morales, Democrats, and former Indy Mayor Greg Ballard running as an independent.

State Rep. Ed DeLaney (D-Indianapolis) talks with Indy Politics at this weekend’s “No Kings” rally about the 2026 midterms, Democratic momentum, and concerns over voting access and the direction of the Republican Party. The interview runs about five minutes.

Citizens Energy Group says Central Indiana has enough water — for now. President Jeff Harrison outlines a 50-year supply plan as growth, data centers, and projects like the LEAP District increase demand. The utility says new large users will pay their own way, not ratepayers. Officials also point to new storage, including the 3-billion-gallon Citizens Reservoir, to maintain reliability. The question going forward: can supply keep up as “future growth” becomes reality?

A Clay County judge is weighing arguments that could decide who appears on the ballot in Indiana Senate District 38. At the center of the case: whether an old criminal case counts as a disqualifying felony—or a misdemeanor under alternative sentencing. The dispute follows a deadlocked Indiana Election Commission vote and has already triggered emergency court action over absentee ballots. Now, the courts will determine how Indiana law applies—and what it means for voters in the district.

A Clay County judge is weighing arguments that could decide who appears on the ballot in Indiana Senate District 38. At the center of the case: whether an old criminal case counts as a disqualifying felony—or a misdemeanor under alternative sentencing. The dispute follows a deadlocked Indiana Election Commission vote and has already triggered emergency court action over absentee ballots. Now, the courts will determine how Indiana law applies—and what it means for voters in the district.

Indy Politics speaks with Brad Klopfenstein, president of the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce, about local development, changes in the alcohol and gaming industries, and the current political landscape in Indiana.

Former Republican state senator Jim Merritt discussed his book "Lessons Learned: Are We Ready for the Next Pandemic? History Says No," which examines the COVID-19 pandemic and past pandemics like the Black Plague and Spanish Flu. Merritt highlighted the chaotic response in Indiana, the lack of a comprehensive after-action report, and the need for better communication and trust in government. He emphasized the importance of telehealth, mental health support, and preparedness for future pandemics, advocating for respected authorities to lead public health efforts. Merritt also shared personal anecdotes about his parents' vaccination experiences.

Governor Mike Braun says Indiana is taking on rising utility costs with a new affordability push targeting energy companies and massive data center projects. But House Democrats say the governor and Republican lawmakers blocked their proposals for immediate relief, including tax breaks on utility bills and limits on rate increases.

Governor Mike Braun says Indiana is taking on rising utility costs with a new affordability push targeting energy companies and massive data center projects. But House Democrats say the governor and Republican lawmakers blocked their proposals for immediate relief, including tax breaks on utility bills and limits on rate increases.

The Marion County Election Board has referred Indiana Secretary of State Diego Morales to the Inspector General and State Ethics Commission over allegations that state staff and video from an official visit were used in a political campaign ad. Indy Politics breaks down what happened, why county officials say it crosses an ethics line, and what could happen next.

Former Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard joins Indy Politics to discuss why he’s running for Indiana Secretary of State as an independent, citing frustration with hyper-partisan “gotcha” politics and a growing block of disillusioned voters. Ballard talks about the steep signature requirements for independent candidates and how an old law was changed to make ballot access tougher after an independent nearly upset a legislator. He highlights his 31 years of public service, including the Marine Corps and two terms as mayor, arguing that his experience makes him well-suited to run elections in a nonpartisan, professional way. Ballard addresses recent attacks on his residency and voting record, calling them misleading and emblematic of what turns voters off from both major parties. He says his goal is to give Hoosiers—especially young and independent-minded voters—a credible alternative and to tone down the rhetoric in Indiana politics.

Former Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard shocked Indiana politics this week with an announcement he is running as an Independent candidate for Secretary of State. The announcement comes just a day after a poll showed Ballard very competitive in a three-way race, likely pulling heavily from incumbent Diego Morales. Will Ballard play spoiler to Morales if he is the nominee? Can Ballard actually win? Rob Kendall, Abdul-Hakim Shabazz, and Jim Merritt discuss on Statehouse Happenings.

Although data centers were not on Monday night's Indianapolis City-County Councils' agenda, Decatur Township residents showed up to oppose the project.

Although data centers were not on Monday night's Indianapolis City-County Councils' agenda, Decatur Township residents showed up to oppose the project.

The Mid-States Corridor just moved from planning map to fiscal test. Governor Braun is embracing Budget Committee review instead of fighting it. He made those comments Monday at his end of session news conference.

The 2026 legislative session is over, and both parties are claiming victory on “affordability.” Republicans point to tax cuts, housing reform, utility oversight, and the Bears stadium framework as proof they delivered structural relief. Democrats argue the state settled for incremental steps and missed bigger opportunities on healthcare, childcare, and cost of living. In this episode, we break down what actually passed, what stalled, and what it all means when Hoosiers open their bills next month.

The 2026 legislative session is over, and both parties are claiming victory on “affordability.” Republicans point to tax cuts, housing reform, utility oversight, and the Bears stadium framework as proof they delivered structural relief. Democrats argue the state settled for incremental steps and missed bigger opportunities on healthcare, childcare, and cost of living. In this episode, we break down what actually passed, what stalled, and what it all means when Hoosiers open their bills next month.

The 2026 legislative session is over, and both parties are claiming victory on “affordability.” Republicans point to tax cuts, housing reform, utility oversight, and the Bears stadium framework as proof they delivered structural relief. Democrats argue the state settled for incremental steps and missed bigger opportunities on healthcare, childcare, and cost of living. In this episode, we break down what actually passed, what stalled, and what it all means when Hoosiers open their bills next month.

The 2026 legislative session is over, and both parties are claiming victory on “affordability.” Republicans point to tax cuts, housing reform, utility oversight, and the Bears stadium framework as proof they delivered structural relief. Democrats argue the state settled for incremental steps and missed bigger opportunities on healthcare, childcare, and cost of living. In this episode, we break down what actually passed, what stalled, and what it all means when Hoosiers open their bills next month.

A new poll once again shows Indiana Governor Mike Braun underwater. A survey done by Public Policy Polling reveals that a shocking 53 percent of Hoosiers disapprove of the job Braun is doing, compared to just 25 percent who support the governor. Why are Braun's numbers so bad and what can he do to turn them around? Rob Kendall, Abdul-Hakim Shabazz, and Jim Merritt discuss on Statehouse Happenings.

This week’s Marion County Election Board hearing lasted four hours and resulted in 120 of 121 ballot challenges being upheld. We hear from Marion County Democratic Chair Myla Eldridge on why the rules were applied uniformly, and from young Democrat Gabrielle Alfod on how Rule 8(c)(2) may discourage youth participation. Open primaries, internal party standards, and what the system is designed to do.