Gary Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson and the grand dame of Indiana politics, Earline Rogers formally, endorsed Indiana State Senate candidate Eddie Melton. He seeks to replace Rogers, who recently announced her decision to not seek re-election after 34 years of service. Rogers said she was confident that Melton would make an “effective and passionate successor.”
“I have watched Eddie emerge as a leader whose service is genuine and diverse,” said Rogers. “From his accomplishments in business, the non-profit sector, education and community service, he has the qualities and character to pursue State office.”
Freeman-Wilson echoed Rogers’ sentiments, calling Melton the “fresh air that government needs.”
Melton, who officially opened his campaign headquarters Friday at 504 Broadway in downtown Gary, said he was humbled by the endorsements.
“For someone who has decades of experience in public service to express her faith in me to continue this legacy is humbling,” said Melton. “I thank Senator Rogers for her support and appreciate the wisdom she continues to share about representing the people of Northwest Indiana.
“Mayor Freeman-Wilson embodies public service with her roles as judge, Attorney General and now the second-term Mayor of Gary. Her support and guidance during this campaign will further fuel this movement of change that we will take all the way to the State house.”
As Melton embarks on his first run for public office, both Rogers and Freeman-Wilson acknowledged a need for fresh ideas and new perspectives in government.
“His allegiance to Northwest Indiana is clear, and what’s really key, is that he listens,” said Freeman-Wilson. “I have no doubt that he will represent the interests of residents while pushing for education reform and economic advancement for the region.”
As Manager of Governmental and Community Affairs for NIPSCO, Melton has been a driving force in the company’s corporate giving and community involvement. An avid supporter of youth and education, Eddie is the founder of the Mentoring Trust. The organization forges the power of volunteerism with local resources to develop a steady pipeline of mentors for young people who need guidance. In 2015, Melton was appointed to the Indiana State Board of Education.
