Turn Left, hosted by Indiana's Own Dana Black

Have you checked your voter registration? The deadline to register is April 8, 2024. Don't miss the opportunity to cast your vote for the candidate who is closest to your values.

Then take the time to learn about the candidates on your ballot by turning in Thursday to Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

Donate to David: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/friends-of-david-g--henry-1?refcode=TurnLeft

Donate to Jenn

https://secure.actblue.com/donate/committee-to-elect-jennifer-shabazz-1?refcode=TurnLeft

Turn Left is back this week, and on this last week of Women's History Month, I'm talking with Alfie McGinty. Learn about the office and this amazing candidate, who has been dedicated to the citizens of Marion County.Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

To donate to Alfie: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/committee-to-elect-alfie-for-corener-1

Strong leadership at every level of government, is what Indiana politics needs now more than ever. Too many on the other side of the isle are just too happy to have the endorsement of someone with over 90 criminal charges against him and who has stated he will be a dictator on day 1. We don't need Orange-light crafting policies that impact your everyday lives.Democrats, we have such candidates. Do you know them? If not, get to know them and find a way to help.Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

Donate to Joe: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/joe-4-tippecanoe-county-council-at-large-1

Donate to Josh: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/lowry-for-indiana24

The Republican super majority is causing real harm to real people in Indiana with little resistance because Democrats just don't have the numbers.They have the fight, but they need more left-leaning bodies. We could continue to simply complain about what is happening in the Indiana General Assembly, or we could get to know and support the people who are working to earn your vote. Become an active participant in our citizen government because we need to work together to improve the conditions for Hoosiers. No one person can do it.

Also...You should consider donating to this week's candidates to help their chances of representing us in the state legislature.

Hollie Payton: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/hollie-payton-for-in-1

Sarah Shydale:https://secure.actblue.com/donate/sarah-shydale-for-house-district-97-1

Rep. Jim Banks is horrible and does not legislate for people outside of his reality. This is an open Federal seat, and we have a Democratic candidate ready to assume the role. I know you think it's not competitive, but if we all come together in community, we can elect a Democrat .Candidate filing opens this week, and we will see who will be on the ballot in May, but now is the time to find out who wants to lead you in Washington.

Your voice is what makes our citizen government go. Enjoy the process of knowing you have a say in how we are governed. Don't leave it to others.

This Thursday will be the post-election wrap-up show, where we will discuss the wins and losses and what they could mean to communities. We will also discuss what, as a party, we did well and where we can improve.

Then we will turn our attention to the 2024 election cycle and what we as Democrats will need to do to communicate and educate voters on what our party's vision is for the future. There are no better guests than the Communications Director of the state party and a Young Democrat encouraging the next generation of leaders to be civically engaged.

Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

Election day is one week away! Oh yes, this is the most wonderful time of the year. Do you have a plan to vote?This municipal election year, Indiana could make history by electing four Black women to lead Indiana cities. No Indiana city has elected a Black woman to be mayor since Karen Freeman-Wilson of Gary, INYou already met Stepnaie Graf running to be mayor of Peru, IN and Deb Whitfield running for mayor of Lawrence, IN, on previous episodes of Turn Left. This week, meet two more fascinating Black women: Angie Nelson Deuitch, candidate for mayor in Michigan City, IN and Stephanie Terry, candidate for mayor of Evansville, INWe have all heard that "representation matters", and "Black women are the backbone of our Democratic party." These women have stepped up and are ready to lead their communities. Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

Early voting is underway, but there is still time for you to learn about the candidates on your ballot. This week we chat with a rising star in Indianapolis politics and a fresh face from Michigan City.

These two candidates have amazing stories that you will love!

No matter the size, representation matters. Hear why this history maker speaks for the people.

Leaders of cities can come from diverse spaces. I'm excited to see how many people refuse to give in to the "good ol boy" network and are kicking down doors and proclaiming our government is for everyone.This week, we will chat with two mayoral candidates looking to be changemakers in their cities.

Turn Left: Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things

No matter the size, representation matters. Hear why this candidate in Zionsville speaks for the people.

We are less than eight weeks out from the election and about 4 weeks until the voter registration deadline. With all the craziness happening with the inept Repulicans in DC...honestly how does Speaker McCarthy stand without a spine?...we should be happy that all politics are local. We can do in our communities what they can't do from DC which is take care of our cities and towns and help improve lives.Trust, I will weigh in on the Indy Mayoral race soon.Tune in Thursday for Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

Hope you enjoyed your long weekend and short 4 day work week. Did you thank a union?I'm coming home this week! Yes, I am talking about Indianapolis this week with Jesse Brown. And because of my sister from another mister, Christine Bohm, Huntington is another home, and we will chat with Scott Thorsbberry. Candidates all over the state are looking for your help. Tuen in to Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

Labor Day weekend, the last summer holiday and the marker for when the general election heats up! Whether it is in large cities or small towns, we have Democrats on the ballot who will need your support. Tune in this week when we chat with two more great candidates looking to represent their communities.

I miss y'all when I don't have a show!! But we are back with two more amazing candidates who will need your support! Municipal elections will have the greatest impact on your everyday lives. Learn who they are and why you should support them. Tune in Thursday for Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

There is a lot happening in Hamilton County. Shout out to Dayna Colbert, Hamilton County Democratic Party Chair and Cynthia Johnson, 5th Congressional District Chair for their hard work in recruiting amazing and diverse candidates.

Yes... Democrats making a lot of noise in Hamilton County!

From Nobelsville, to Westfield, Fishers and Carmel, Democratic candidates are putting in the work to earn the votes that will lead to election victories that will have a positive impact in their communities.

This week we will chat with a Westfield resident, Alexis Lowry, candidate for City Council.

Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

The ultimate goal of Turn Left is to highlight our Democratic candidates from all over the state. And to be the podcast/vlog you can count on to hear from candidates no matter where they live in the state. This week we are heading north to chat with a young Democrat looking to improve the community he lives in. Tune in Thursday to Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

As women we are natural leaders and multitaskers. But we don't even realize how balancing the home, work and rest are essential components to being a great leader. There are multiple ways to impact your community. You could volunteer with great nonprofit organizations. You could be appointed to boards and commissions, or you could run for office. We can take those natural skills and apply them in a way that improves lives in your communities.

After talking about how we as women should run for office...ALL the offices...I'm excited to chat with Erin Easter who is running for Mayor of West Lafayette.Join us Thursday for Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things!

We first met Grace when she was a first-time candidate running for Columbus City Council. She was a huge part of the Blue Wave that turned Columbus blue. It is a great time to catch up with Grace as she is running for re-election.Tune on Thursday for Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

This morning on Morning Joe, veteran journalists Katty Kay and Claire Shipman discussed how women perceive power differently than their male counterparts. More importantly the conclusion reached is if you want less corruption in American politics, more women should assume power.This week on Turn Left, you will hear how you can learn how to use your power through Hoosier Women Forward. Also, Sheila Suess Kennedy will introduce her new book; From Property to Partner: Women's Progress and Political Resistance.As women we can change the direction of politics if we get involved. Tune in to Turn Left this week to hear how.Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

We have had some great pre-primary discussions with many Democrats from around the state running in the May 2nd primary election. With all 92 counties holding elections, it was impossible to get them all on, but I tried. This is the last Thursday show before the May 2nd primary and I'm super excited to have two fresh face candidates who are looking to make improvements in their communities.Turn in Thursday for Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of things.

Early voting is in full swing, but do you know the candidates on your ballot? On Turn Left we try to bring you as many candidates as possible so you can be more informed about those local candidates looking to lead your cities, This week it's all Indy as we chat with a fresh new candidate and a seasoned vet.Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things

Keeping the records for the council is not an easy job and anyone seeking this role needs to be very detailed oriented. This week we chat with Biaca about her campaign and what she is working on in South Bend.

Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

The best part about doing Turn Left? I get to travel the entire state every Thursday chatting with Democratic candidates who work to bring positive change to their communities. This week we are heading up north!Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

During Women's History Month we highlight the amazing accomplishments and contributions of women. Our impact on humanity is ever present in our lives and in the lives of those we touch. Unfortunately there is still a wage gap between men and women and for women of color it's even larger. Some professions in which women dominate are under attack, such as teachers. But we will not sit around and let policy happen to us, we are rolling up our sleeves and getting in the policy fight.For this last week of Women's History Month, we will chat with two community leaders who are doing the work for their constituents and doing it with all the confidence necessary to be a city leader.

Competition is good! The best way to increase voter interest and voter turn out is to have more contested races. And this year's primary season is full of great Democratic candidates looking to lead their cities. Yes, for the 3rd week in a row you will hear from another candidate running for Bloomington mayor and the first of two candidates running for Lawrence mayor.It is an exciting time to be civically engaged in our municipal elections. Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

Leading a city is not an easy task, no matter your history and experience. But those that step up to the plate have the opportunity to make positive changes for their city.

This week we will chat with Bloomington's home-grown candidate for Mayor Donald Griffin. Looking to make history, he is going to share his story of why he wants to lead Bloomington, IN.

Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things

It's Women's History Month! We often talk about the lack of adequate representation of women as elected officials at all levels of government. We know the numbers, but the only way to change this disparity is to run for office. This year we are seeing a record number of women running to be the mayors of their cities across Indiana. Women are recognizing they have all of the necessary skills to lead their communities and they are shaking off the notion they aren't ready. When we show up, we can win.

The possibilities are endless and we have an opportunity to move our communities forward. Tune in Thursday as we chat with two women who are in the race and running to lead. Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

With the primary season in full swing, it's time to check in with the party. So many of us wonder how we can do more to influence good policies and help stop bad policies. The Indiana Democratic party's purpose is supporting and electing the right people to write good policies. Party work is another way to get involved and become civically engaged. Join us this week when we chat with Indiana Democratic Party Chair, Mike Schmuhl.

Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

How can you be a fresh face and a seasoned vet at the same time? My two guests this week are the embodiment of just that. Getting involved in civic engagement is more than simply running for office, it also means helping other candidates win, helping the party and doing all of the behind the scenes work that doesn't get accolades or pats on the back. Furthermore, that work gives you the necessary tools you will need whenever you decide to put your name on the ballot.

I'm excited about Marion County's primary rule change and in many cases candidates, incumbents and challengers, will have to earn their votes. That is why being in the community long before you put your name on the ballot is important.

If you are running for office, ask yourself, "What did I do to help other candidates get elected? What did I do to help the party? What did I do to engage the community?" My two guests this week have long lists of the work they have done.

Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

Indianapolis, the capital city of Indiana. The economic hub of the entire state. The city that hosts multiple conventions year round, multiple Final Fours, and once the Super Bowl. Home to the historical "Greatest Spectacle in Racing". The nation's 15th largest city by population and the 18th largest by land area, is no doubt the most critical city in our state. With 897,041 residents and  678,067 registered voters, it is no wonder the Republican super majority in the state house will craft any type of legislation they can to regain control of this magnificent and very unique consolidated city.  Yes, Indianapolis - Marion County is the ONLY consolidated city in the nation and the only city in the state whose council does not have At-Large council seats.

But they can't have it.

This year, with Marion County having an open primary, voters will get the chance to determine who will be the next mayoral candidate in November's general election. That is why, this week I am super excited to have the first, of what I hope will be multiple, Indianapolis Mayoral candidates on the show giving our listeners the reason why she should lead this city.  I am excited to announce Rep. Robin Shacklford, with her second visit to Turn Left, as the guest on this week's show.

Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things!

*Candidates who appear on Turn Left is not an endorsement from Indiana's Own Dana Black.

The candidate filing deadline has come and gone, and the primary races are set. Excitement is in the air, especially in Indy, where we will have an open primary for the first time in decades. I, for one, am happy slating is gone. Competition is good and now everyone who wants to represent the people of Indianapolis will have to earn the votes.

That being said, the main fundraising mechanism is also gone. So for those of you who wanted to see the end of slating and you want the party to offer support to candidates in the general election, then you will need to pony up some coins, offer to host fundraiser and volunteer with the Marion County Democratic Party. Now, if we could just get our At-Large seats back like the rest of the state has.

But this week on Turn Left we are focusing on the states second largest city and the little blue dot, Fort Wayne and Bloomington. These primary races help us get a good idea of who the people are. You can hear their stories each week on Turn Left.

A huge part of building our bench is empowering our young people to be leaders today. There is enough room and work in our party to give space for any young person ready to take on the challenge. But we can't just toss them into the fire, we, the elders, should offer guidance but space to let them learn through action.

I'm excited to chat with a young leader who does not take "no" for an answer, rolls up his sleeves and gets to work. Sean Johnson has burst on the scene, sees the issues in his community and is cultivating relationships to solve problems. This week we will learn about the work he is doing as President of the Fort Wayne chapter of Indiana Young Democrats and his decision to put his name on the ballot in 2023.

And if we are talking Fort Wayne, we must have the smooth voice of the city and My Labor Radio, Mark Gevaart as co-host.

Tune on Thursday for Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

While the Indiana General Assembly is completing its first full week of committee meetings, candidates running in municipal elections around the state are filing to run for office. By the way, you still have until February 3, 2023 to put your name on the ballot for the primary election.

As they say, all politics are local and having strong voices on our city councils can have a direct impact in your communities. The council determines how the funding allotted for your municipality will be allocated. Are your sidewalks in disarray? Do you need more lighting on your streets? How about updating your neighborhood parks? The city councils determine which communities within the municipalities receive the necessary funding to make the much needed improvements. If you don't have the right people representing your community, those needs may get ignored.

This week on Turn Left, we will chat with a first time candidate Dylan Liddle and a councilman seeking re-election, Aaron Mishler. Both are action oriented and vocal leaders in their community and want to share with you why you should support their campaign.

Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

For this year’s Bloomington MLK Day observance the theme  is “Keep Knocking!” The January 16 evening keynote speaker, Park Cannon, is Georgia’s youngest State Representative and one of two openly queer lawmakers in the Georgia General Assembly. She represents House District 58, which encompasses a diverse cross-section of Atlanta. The Democratic lawmaker recently made national headlines when she was unlawfully …

Bring It On! is Indiana’s only weekly radio program committed to exploring the people, issues and events impacting the African-American community. On WFHB-Bloomington

I don't know about you, but I was super saddened to learn Emily Styron is not seeking a second term as Mayor of Zionsville. She is a true leader and is a breath of fresh air in our state. I can't wait to see what she does next.

But I also can see her labor is bearing fruit. This week on Turn Left we will chat with Amanda Rubeck who is running for Zionsville City Council At-Large. Tune in on Thursday to learn about this amazing candidate and you can help her win her election.

Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things

Join me tonight when I chat with two more Democrats who want to do the work and improve their communities. All politics is local, and gaining some control on county councils around the state will undoubtedly improve communities.

Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

Now more than ever we need to elect more women into office. And this week on Turn Left we will bring you two more amazing women looking for your support as they work to represent you.

Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.