Saying Indiana’s teachers deserve better pay and all Hoosiers deserve to feel safe and protected, Shelbyville Democrat Josh Owens today filed paperwork for the 2020 Governor’s race.

“I’m running for Governor now because I believe in an Indiana where teachers are paid what they deserve and where all are welcomed, respected and protected,” Owens said. “We need a leader who will ensure our state budget, policies and laws reflect a bold and inclusive vision for collective Hoosier success.”

The 34-year old is also the CEO of SupplyKick and he is on the boards of TechPoint Indiana, Indy Chamber, the Orr Fellowship and previously chaired the Indiana Charter School Board.

Owen’s agenda includes…

  • Paying teachers more and eliminating textbook fees for public school students,
  • Increasing accessibility and affordability of life-long learning for all Hoosiers,
  • Increasing the smoking age and decriminalizing marijuana to invest those funds towards lower healthcare costs,
  • Adding housing and workplace protections from discrimination for all Hoosiers including for sexual orientation or gender identity, and
  • Requiring strengthened background checks for any public or private gun purchases.

Owens also says while he would be the first openly gay candidate for Indiana governor, he hoped voters would choose him due to the positions he has on issues.

“I’m passionate about making Indiana the best state it can be and giving every single Hoosier the economic, education, and community support they deserve,” Owens said.

So far, the only other Democrat in the race is former Public Health Commissioner Dr. Woody Myers.  State Senator Eddie Melton is still exploring running for Governor.