As Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett prepares to announce his re-election bid, he’s expected to have at least three possible Republican challengers hoping to take his job.
Former Indianapolis City-County Councilor Jose Evans, former Butler Tarkington Neighborhood Association Ted Feeney, and local businessman John Schmidt are all looking at running in 2019.
The two are expected to go after Hogsett on issues such as crime, homelessness, and potholes.
Evans, who represented Pike Township, served on the Council from 2008-2012 told Indy Politics, it was time for new leadership. “I love our city. However, crime is out of control, our roads are a mess and our schools are seriously underperforming, Evans said. “I think it’s time we moved in a different direction to build a better Indy.”
Feeney was not available for direct comment, however, a source close to Feeney cited his work in fighting crime and improving education. “He’s been active in solving our city’s most pressing problems,” the source said. “He’s worked to reduce crime in Butler Tarkington, understands the value of each child and has worked to make sure all of Indy’s kids succeed. And he hasn’t been afraid to call out the Mayor as Hogsett’s leadership has failed the city.”
Indy Politics reached out to the Schmidt but had not heard back at the time of this publication.
Also named as possible contender is Republican State Senator Jim Merritt.
Hogsett is scheduled to make his announcement on Tuesday evening at the Phoenix Theater on Illinois street.
