The primary election season is here again. For the last few months, candidates have been engaged to get their message out to the voters. As has been the case in previous elections, voters have been asked to help bring about a change in how our system of government works or doesn’t work. Various candidates have promised that if elected, they will bring about sorely-needed change.
Many disillusioned voters have grown tired of politicians and have stayed away from the polls. Civic engagement is not a sprint, it’s a marathon, and for it to be of benefit you must be in it for the long haul.
Four years ago, just 44,000 out of the over 300,000 plus registered voters countywide bothered to cast a ballot. With the lackluster effort being put forth to bring people to the polls this election, low voter turnout may happen again. However, for government to be effective citizens must play their part. For the Democratic Primary, the Crusader endorses the following candidates:

U.S. Senate
At time when the U.S. Senate is run by a majority reactionary GOP, we need people like Joe Donnelly in the senate.
He not only fights for the people of Indiana, he has championed the rights of the poor and working class. Donnelley will continue to be a commonsense, bipartisan voice in the U.S. Senate.

U.S. Representative
As the dean of the Indiana delegation in the Congress, Visclosky uses his seniority and clout to benefit his district. Over the years he has been responsible for millions of dollars coming into the city of Gary and continues to be an advocate for the city. Visclosky has earned the right to be reelected.

Indiana House of Representatives, District 2
Since taking office, Harris has been a tireless advocate for boosting the economy of Northwest Indiana. He has been focused on getting out information about opportunities and letting constituents know ways to skill-up to take advantage of opportunities in the region. Harris also has sought to bring about a plan to better utilize the resources that the region offers.

Indiana House of Representatives, District 3
Hatcher will bring the same drive and dedication to the Indiana House that she has shown as a member of the Gary Common Council. A strong proponent for human rights, Hatcher will be an advocate, not only for the people in the district, but also the state of Indiana.

Lake County Assessor
Prince is unopposed, and it may have something to do with the professionalism and quality of service he brings to the office. During his time in office, Prince eliminated backlogged appeals.

Allen has close to 20 years of service on both the Gary Common Council and now as commissioner. In both positions Allen has showed leadership and a commitment to improving the lives of his constituents. Allen pledges to keep his commitment to the residents of the 1st District.

Lake County Council, 2nd District
Lay has experience in the public and private sector that will benefit the whole council on the Lake County Council and will be an effective representative for his constituents. Lay’s commitment to service is evident by his many honors and recognitions.

Lake County Council,
3rd District
After over 30 years in the Indiana General Assembly, he has chosen to apply his legislative skills in county government. If elected to the Lake County Council, Brown will be a genuine public servant. Lake County is getting an asset in Charlie Brown.

Calumet Township Assessor
Collins has proven to be a hands-on administrator. Having worked her way up from a clerk in the assessor’s office to become the assessor shows her determination and skills. She also has a record of fairness when it comes to serving the taxpayer of Calumet Township.

Calumet Township
Trustee
As a trustee Robinson has succeeded in balancing the needs of state government and the town of Griffith, which wants to secede from the township. She has been dealing with these concerns while still providing services to the township’s indigent and poor. In the light of these problems, Robinson has managed to continue serving the township clients through several innovative plans and programs. We believe that she is doing a good job and should be retained as Calumet Township Trustee.

Calumet Township Board
Drake is our choice for one of the three positions on the board. An experienced attorney, Drake has been involved in government on several levels. As the city attorney for the city of Gary, he played an integral part in bringing casino gaming to the city. With a background in business and finance, he is more than qualified to serve on the Calumet Township Board.

Calumet Township Board
Gardner has been a major player in helping improve the quality of life for the citizens of Gary. In addition to pastoring one of the city’s prominent churches, he also serves on the Gary Park Board. As the past president of the Northwest Indiana Interfaith Coalition, Gardner has shown his concern for those in need.

Calumet Township Board
Ron Matlock brings a strong work ethic towards anything he does. He will be a dedicated member of the Calumet Township Board.

Lake County Sheriff
Brown is a proven administrator, which is evident from his two terms as Lake County Recorder and Lake County Clerk. As sheriff, Brown will not only bring professionalism and integrity to the position, he will work to keep our communities safe. Through proactive and innovative ideas, Brown will provide programs that will help to deter crime on the streets.