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Older Democrats walloped by midterms anti-establishment revolt

House Democrats who have held their seats for decades are finding the ground shifting beneath their feet.

Politics & Policy

House Democrats who have comfortably held their seats for decades are suddenly finding the ground shifting beneath their feet as <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="primary voters revolt" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/05/house-democrats-primary-shri-thanedar-2026" data-vars-content-id="7aba0f5c-cc32-4ec3-9cea-a8f14d8ebfb2" data-vars-headline="Older Democrats walloped by midterms anti-establishment revolt" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/05/house-democrats-primary-shri-thanedar-2026" target="_self">primary voters revolt</a> against the party&#x27;s old guard.Why it matters: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="anti-establishment revolution" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/27/2026-midterm-democrats-socialist-michigan" data-vars-content-id="7aba0f5c-cc32-4ec3-9cea-a8f14d8ebfb2" data-vars-headline="Older Democrats walloped by midterms anti-establishment revolt" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/27/2026-midterm-democrats-socialist-michigan" target="_self">anti-establishment revolution</a> that has swept Democratic primaries this year is poised to drastically alter the makeup of the party caucus and Congress as a whole.

Trump's growing White House tab

Trump's construction itch hasn't eased, and the price tag keeps on growing with it.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="East Wing" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/12/trumps-ballroom-costs-are-rising-what-we-know-about-the-secret-underground-bunker" data-vars-content-id="724db711-7f3a-4f72-bf80-d374fff90498" data-vars-headline="Trump&#x27;s growing White House tab" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/12/trumps-ballroom-costs-are-rising-what-we-know-about-the-secret-underground-bunker" target="_self">East Wing</a> is gone, a new helipad is spreading across the lawn, and scaffolding wraps the White House&#x27;s front columns, but the price tags for President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="724db711-7f3a-4f72-bf80-d374fff90498" data-vars-headline="Trump&#x27;s growing White House tab" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump&#x27;s</a> renovations are far less obvious.The big picture: The muddled mix of funding streams — whether from private donors, the president himself or taxpayers — has fueled <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="ethical questions" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/16/trump-white-house-ballroom-ethics-donors" data-vars-content-id="724db711-7f3a-4f72-bf80-d374fff90498" data-vars-headline="Trump&#x27;s growing White House tab" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/16/trump-white-house-ballroom-ethics-donors" target="_self">ethical questions</a> about who&#x27;s footing the ever-rising bill for the HGTV-reminiscent White House redesign.

Kennedy Center board restores Trump's name, testing judge

A judge ruled in May that only Congress could change the name of the performing arts venue, and that Trump's name must be removed.

The Kennedy Center board voted Thursday to again add President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="0c67bc5f-b1e0-4de3-a2af-28ced025764d" data-vars-headline="Kennedy Center board restores Trump&#x27;s name, testing judge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump&#x27;s</a> name to the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, two anonymous sources told Axios.Why it matters: The move challenges a federal judge&#x27;s ruling back in May that only Congress could change the name of the performing arts venue, and that Trump&#x27;s name must be <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="removed" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/29/trump-kennedy-center-name-removed-closure" data-vars-content-id="0c67bc5f-b1e0-4de3-a2af-28ced025764d" data-vars-headline="Kennedy Center board restores Trump&#x27;s name, testing judge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/29/trump-kennedy-center-name-removed-closure" target="_self">removed</a>. That process was completed in June.

Another cool July inflation reading

Excluding food and energy, the Producer Price Index was up 0.2% in July, below analysts' forecasts.

Economy

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Inflation" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/economy/inflation" data-vars-content-id="9fc4dc40-4ee5-48e6-a612-6ee8769336cf" data-vars-headline="Another cool July inflation reading" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/economy/inflation" target="_self">Inflation</a> has been stubbornly high for half a decade. But July, at least, brought some relief.The big picture: With <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a lively debate underway" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/31/fed-rates-dissenters-policy" data-vars-content-id="9fc4dc40-4ee5-48e6-a612-6ee8769336cf" data-vars-headline="Another cool July inflation reading" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/31/fed-rates-dissenters-policy" target="_self">a lively debate underway</a> at the Federal Reserve over whether to raise interest rates, the latest run of data — a soft jobs report Friday and benign readings on inflation this week — allows for patience.

The AI perception bubble

The ubiquity of the technology among colleagues makes it easy to overlook the skepticism — and sometimes outright hostility.

Business

AI has become an everyday tool for communicators, but many of the audiences they&#x27;re trying to reach remain deeply skeptical of how it&#x27;s being used.Why it matters: Communicators risk getting stuck in a pro-AI bubble, where the ubiquity of the technology among colleagues and executives makes it easy to overlook the skepticism — and sometimes <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="outright hostility" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/17/ai-backlash-polling-sentiment" data-vars-content-id="27b62c28-7079-48a7-80ca-78ba32066657" data-vars-headline="The AI perception bubble" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/17/ai-backlash-polling-sentiment" target="_self">outright hostility</a> — it generates.

Pornhub pushes for a return to Indiana's web browsers

It's been two years since the state's age verification law blocked the site.

News

Pornhub is hoping to return to Hoosiers&#x27; web browsers and search histories by challenging <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the state&#x27;s age verification rules" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2024/06/20/pornhub-threatens-exit-indiana-age-verification" data-vars-content-id="320f24fd-6537-4879-8645-a7e31d21b715" data-vars-headline="Pornhub pushes for a return to Indiana&#x27;s web browsers" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2024/06/20/pornhub-threatens-exit-indiana-age-verification" target="_self">the state&#x27;s age verification rules</a> for porn sites.Why it matters: It&#x27;s been two years since residents could directly access one of the biggest names in online pornography.

Your ultimate 2026 Indiana State Fair food guide

If there's one thing we know about the 2026 Indiana State Fair, it's that you definitely won't leave hungry.

If there&#x27;s one thing we already know about the 2026 Indiana State Fair, it&#x27;s that you definitely won&#x27;t leave hungry.Why it matters: This year&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Taste of the Fair" data-vars-click-url="https://www.indianastatefair.com/p/food--shopping1/taste-of-the-fair" data-vars-content-id="8f4b65a0-495a-42bf-b3f5-eda432829267" data-vars-headline="Your ultimate 2026 Indiana State Fair food guide" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.indianastatefair.com/p/food--shopping1/taste-of-the-fair" target="_blank">Taste of the Fair</a> lineup is overflowing with bold flavors and imaginative concoctions that don&#x27;t work on paper but certainly make sense on your plate.

Budget, data centers and road funding on council agenda

Monday night's meeting will be a blockbuster.

Indianapolis residents are preparing for a blockbuster City-County Council meeting Monday night.The big picture: While Mayor Joe Hogsett&#x27;s office is introducing his proposal for the next annual budget, data center opponents are <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="gathering in support of the council&#x27;s vote" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/events/1956586371717411?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22surface%22%3A%22external%22%7D%2C%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22attachment%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22newsfeed%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D" data-vars-content-id="a09bb8ba-d41d-4b7d-9445-bc2ba73ba950" data-vars-headline="Budget, data centers and road funding on council agenda" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1956586371717411?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22surface%22%3A%22external%22%7D%2C%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22attachment%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22newsfeed%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D" target="_blank">gathering in support of the council&#x27;s vote</a> on a moratorium on new data center projects.<ul><li>Meanwhile, council Democrats are busy scrambling to rally votes to override the mayor&#x27;s veto of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="their road funding plan" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2026/06/02/hogsett-city-county-council-leaders-divided-road-funding-tax-increase" data-vars-content-id="a09bb8ba-d41d-4b7d-9445-bc2ba73ba950" data-vars-headline="Budget, data centers and road funding on council agenda" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2026/06/02/hogsett-city-county-council-leaders-divided-road-funding-tax-increase" target="_self">their road funding plan</a>.</li></ul>

Your weekend plans: DCI World Championships, Creatives in Color, Levitt VIBE and more

Some of the world's best marching bands are storming Lucas Oil Stadium this weekend.

Things to Do

Nearly 50 of the world&#x27;s best marching bands are storming Lucas Oil Stadium this week for the drum corps Super Bowl.Why it matters: The competition among musicians comes with lots of free fun in downtown Indy.

HUD's new rule threatens Indiana's only fair housing nonprofit

The state's only fair housing advocate says it will fold if a lawsuit challenging the rule isn't successful.

Politics

Indiana&#x27;s only fair housing nonprofit says it will be forced to close if a new federal lawsuit challenging changes the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump administration" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="9c17b3c1-4964-4270-bed6-bab94710f76e" data-vars-headline="HUD&#x27;s new rule threatens Indiana&#x27;s only fair housing nonprofit" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump administration</a> made to a key housing grant program isn&#x27;t successful.Why it matters: Most housing discrimination complaints are investigated not by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development but by nonprofit fair housing organizations.<ul><li>Groups like the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Fair Housing Center of Central Indiana" data-vars-click-url="https://www.fhcci.org/" data-vars-content-id="9c17b3c1-4964-4270-bed6-bab94710f76e" data-vars-headline="HUD&#x27;s new rule threatens Indiana&#x27;s only fair housing nonprofit" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.fhcci.org/" target="_blank">Fair Housing Center of Central Indiana</a> rely on federal Fair Housing Initiatives Program (FHIP) grants to survive.</li></ul>

Public camping ban and 7 other new Indiana state laws

Dozens of new state laws take effect July 1.

People experiencing homelessness have fewer options today as a statewide ban on public &quot;camping,&quot; which makes sleeping on city streets and other public property illegal, takes effect.Why it matters: Critics say the measure punishes homelessness and will further compound the challenges facing an already marginalized group of people, while proponents of the law say it will connect people with the help and services they need.

The gap between renting and owning in Indy

Due to high prices and mortgage rates, Indy renters paid far less per month than homeowners in 2024.

Owning a home is 34% more expensive in Indianapolis than renting, mirroring a national trend playing out across all 100 of the largest U.S. metro areas, per a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="LendingTree analysis" data-vars-click-url="https://www.lendingtree.com/home/mortgage/comparing-rent-vs-owning-a-home-in-nations-largest-metros/" data-vars-content-id="ccb9b7c1-4597-498b-baa1-0fc14d5e5913" data-vars-headline="The gap between renting and owning in Indy" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.lendingtree.com/home/mortgage/comparing-rent-vs-owning-a-home-in-nations-largest-metros/" target="_blank">LendingTree analysis</a>.Why it matters: Despite Indianapolis being named 2026&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="most buyer-friendly metro by Zillow" data-vars-click-url="https://www.zillow.com/news/indianapolis-leads-zillows-list-of-the-best-markets-to-buy-a-home-in-2026/" data-vars-content-id="ccb9b7c1-4597-498b-baa1-0fc14d5e5913" data-vars-headline="The gap between renting and owning in Indy" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.zillow.com/news/indianapolis-leads-zillows-list-of-the-best-markets-to-buy-a-home-in-2026/" target="_blank">most buyer-friendly metro by Zillow</a> and one of the National Association of Realtors <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="top 10 homebuying hot spots" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nar.realtor/newsroom/national-association-of-realtors-unveils-top-10-homebuying-hot-spots-for-2026" data-vars-content-id="ccb9b7c1-4597-498b-baa1-0fc14d5e5913" data-vars-headline="The gap between renting and owning in Indy" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nar.realtor/newsroom/national-association-of-realtors-unveils-top-10-homebuying-hot-spots-for-2026" target="_blank">top 10 homebuying hot spots</a>, high home prices and mortgage rates could keep some hopeful homeowners left out of our increasingly competitive market.

Huntsville

Eli Lilly makes Alabama history with $6B Huntsville plant

Eli Lilly plans to start work next year on a facility that will produce orforglipron, officials announced Tuesday in Huntsville.

Eli Lilly chose Huntsville for its newest manufacturing plant — a $6 billion project and the largest single-site investment in Alabama history.Why it matters: The project aims to transform Huntsville, and the state, into a world leader in biopharma manufacturing.

IU and Purdue prepare for very different college football seasons

Central Indiana football fans are heading into this season with the starkest split-screen the in-state rivalry has seen in years.

Sports

IU and Purdue football fans are heading into this season with the starkest split-screen their storied in-state rivalry has seen in years.Why it matters: With one program <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="protecting perfection" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2026/01/20/indiana-university-football-perfect-national-championship-win-miami" data-vars-content-id="8f8dc16b-5687-486a-bb6e-383b8f78ee16" data-vars-headline="IU and Purdue prepare for very different college football seasons" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2026/01/20/indiana-university-football-perfect-national-championship-win-miami" target="_self">protecting perfection</a> and another <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="pursuing measurable progress" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2025/08/28/purdue-football-season-preview" data-vars-content-id="8f8dc16b-5687-486a-bb6e-383b8f78ee16" data-vars-headline="IU and Purdue prepare for very different college football seasons" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2025/08/28/purdue-football-season-preview" target="_self">pursuing measurable progress</a>, there will be no easy weeks for either squad in what has arguably become college football&#x27;s strongest conference.

Federal agencies launch youth sports initiative

They announced the program Tuesday at the Colts practice facility.

Football changed Scott Turner&#x27;s life. The U.S. secretary of Housing and Urban Development says it taught him discipline, accountability and perseverance long before the nine seasons he spent with the NFL.Why it matters: Turner wants to bring the opportunities sports provided him to more kids growing up in America&#x27;s public housing projects, which he now oversees.

Kelvis Williams wins Marion County sheriff's race

Without a lot to vote for, turn out was low for Tuesday's Marion County primary.

Election

Kelvis Williams is Marion County&#x27;s presumptive next sheriff.Why it matters: Williams, who campaigned with current sheriff Kerry Forestal, has signaled he plans to lead with continuity.<ul><li>He&#x27;ll have to contend with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="ongoing pressure" data-vars-click-url="https://www.wfyi.org/wfyi-news/2026-03-04/marion-county-jail-immigration-data-ice-arrests-2025" data-vars-content-id="00e6ad3a-9e4f-4a4f-b8d6-1d9d4f3e477f" data-vars-headline="Kelvis Williams wins Marion County sheriff&#x27;s race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.wfyi.org/wfyi-news/2026-03-04/marion-county-jail-immigration-data-ice-arrests-2025" target="_blank">ongoing pressure</a> from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detentions.</li></ul>

GOP incumbents fall to Trump-endorsed challengers in Indiana

The losers casualties of President Trump's retribution campaign against GOP senators who blocked redistricting.

Several incumbent GOP senators lost their re-election bids Tuesday, falling to Trump-endorsed challengers in districts across the Hoosier state.The big picture: Their defeats underscore the political risk facing Republicans <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="who opposed" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2025/12/15/indiana-senate-republicans-reelection-voted-against-redistricting" data-vars-content-id="d430e00c-4c12-4c6c-9feb-77ae90bd73e1" data-vars-headline="GOP incumbents fall to Trump-endorsed challengers in Indiana" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2025/12/15/indiana-senate-republicans-reelection-voted-against-redistricting" target="_self">who opposed</a> President Trump&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="push to redraw" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2025/12/11/indiana-senate-rejects-trump-redistricting" data-vars-content-id="d430e00c-4c12-4c6c-9feb-77ae90bd73e1" data-vars-headline="GOP incumbents fall to Trump-endorsed challengers in Indiana" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2025/12/11/indiana-senate-rejects-trump-redistricting" target="_self">push to redraw</a> Indiana&#x27;s congressional districts.

Indiana State Fair's giant cheese sculpture is beloved tradition 

The state fair's cheese sculpture is a two-decade-long tradition.

Mooove over, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Iowa" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/08/10/iowa-butter-cow-ohio-bragging-rights" data-vars-content-id="6ff9cf3a-8ee5-4003-aa70-70cc7f38d73a" data-vars-headline="Indiana State Fair&#x27;s giant cheese sculpture is beloved tradition " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/08/10/iowa-butter-cow-ohio-bragging-rights" target="_self">Iowa</a>. Your 600-pound butter cow ain&#x27;t got nothing on the Indiana State Fair&#x27;s cheese sculpture.The big cheddar: Nearly 1,500 pounds of cheese anchor the starting point for this 20-year tradition.

Indianapolis aiming to expand cash payment program for low-income moms

The BIRTH Fund provides cash assistance for the first three years of a baby's life.

The City of Indianapolis is hoping to enroll another cohort of pregnant women in its groundbreaking BIRTH Fund, which provides no-strings cash payments to low-income moms for the first three years of their baby&#x27;s life.Why it matters: Babies born into poverty have less access to quality healthcare, nutrition and educational resources.

IndyFringe Festival turns 21 with free shows and a roadmap for first-timers 

The IndyFringe Festival returns this week with a bigger push to make the Circle City's most unpredictable annual gathering easier to explore.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The IndyFringe Festival" data-vars-click-url="https://indyfringe.org/festival/" data-vars-content-id="4de6a002-a34c-4f88-b8e9-95b66ae2175d" data-vars-headline="IndyFringe Festival turns 21 with free shows and a roadmap for first-timers " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://indyfringe.org/festival/" target="_blank">The IndyFringe Festival</a> returns this week with a bigger push to make the Circle City’s most unpredictable annual gathering easier to explore.Why it matters: More than an arts event celebrating its 21st year, IndyFringe stands as one of Indianapolis’ clearest examples of a shared cultural space — one where artists can experiment and audiences can discover something they didn&#x27;t know they needed.

Food insecurity climbs across the Indianapolis area

More than 163,000 people in Marion County faced food insecurity in 2024, according to a new report from Feeding America.

More than 163,000 people in Marion County faced food insecurity in 2024, according to a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new report" data-vars-click-url="https://map.feedingamerica.org/county/2024/overall/indiana/county/marion" data-vars-content-id="5827cf66-c185-4344-ae92-9e9605999760" data-vars-headline="Food insecurity climbs across the Indianapolis area" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://map.feedingamerica.org/county/2024/overall/indiana/county/marion" target="_blank">new report</a> from Feeding America.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Food banks say" data-vars-click-url="https://www.gleaners.org/key-takeaways-from-gleaners-2025-impact-report/" data-vars-content-id="5827cf66-c185-4344-ae92-9e9605999760" data-vars-headline="Food insecurity climbs across the Indianapolis area" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.gleaners.org/key-takeaways-from-gleaners-2025-impact-report/" target="_blank">Food banks say</a> they&#x27;re seeing greater need as families grapple with high grocery, housing and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="fuel costs" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2026/06/03/gov-mike-braun-extends-gas-tax-suspension-july" data-vars-content-id="5827cf66-c185-4344-ae92-9e9605999760" data-vars-headline="Food insecurity climbs across the Indianapolis area" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2026/06/03/gov-mike-braun-extends-gas-tax-suspension-july" target="_self">fuel costs</a>, while <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2026/01/28/indiana-senate-prioritizes-changes-to-medicaid-and-snap" data-vars-content-id="5827cf66-c185-4344-ae92-9e9605999760" data-vars-headline="Food insecurity climbs across the Indianapolis area" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2026/01/28/indiana-senate-prioritizes-changes-to-medicaid-and-snap" target="_self">changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program</a> (SNAP) add pressure.

Indiana's third-grade reading rates are state testing highlight

Years of investment in literacy are paying off for Hoosier third graders.

Indiana&#x27;s literacy rates for nearly every student population have surpassed <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="pre-pandemic levels" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2025/08/13/indiana-third-grade-reading-proficiency-iread-test-pandemic-rebound" data-vars-content-id="429e49d8-c821-49f2-a846-130c69d9b31c" data-vars-headline="Indiana&#x27;s third-grade reading rates are state testing highlight" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2025/08/13/indiana-third-grade-reading-proficiency-iread-test-pandemic-rebound" target="_self">pre-pandemic levels</a> for the first time.Why it matters: The pandemic exacerbated the state&#x27;s literacy crisis, and it has taken years of hard work and investment to dig out of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the crater COVID-19 created" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2023/08/17/indiana-third-grade-reading-scores" data-vars-content-id="429e49d8-c821-49f2-a846-130c69d9b31c" data-vars-headline="Indiana&#x27;s third-grade reading rates are state testing highlight" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2023/08/17/indiana-third-grade-reading-scores" target="_self">the crater COVID-19 created</a> in the state&#x27;s third-grade reading rates.

Mayor Hogsett introduces $1.9 billion 2027 Indianapolis budget

The budget is expected to get voted on by the Council in October.

The Indianapolis city budget is growing, despite state property tax cuts that were expected to have a greater impact on local governments.The big picture: Mayor Joe Hogsett introduced a nearly $1.9 billion 2027 spending plan Monday.

'Burb Bites: Carmel Japanese Garden set for expansion

This week's news from around the region includes a park expansion, an e-bike ban and the advancement of Grand Park's master plan.

This week&#x27;s news from around the region includes a park expansion near Carmel City Hall, an e-bike ban in Zionsville and another step toward the future of Westfield&#x27;s Grand Park.

The coolest stuff we saw at Gen Con 2026

Costumes, art, giant builds ... Gen Con 2026 had it all.

Gen Con 2026 may be over, but we can&#x27;t stop talking about it.The big picture: The biggest tabletop gaming convention was a feast for the eyes, even before a massive roof leak sent rain pouring onto the exhibit hall floor. <ul><li>Our experience covering the event proved there&#x27;s something new and exciting to be found for everyone, from first-timer to veteran attendee. </li></ul>🤯 Arika&#x27;s thought bubble: Well, my mind is blown. Even before the doors opened to the exhibit hall on Day 1, I was floored by the sheer size of the spectacle. <ul><li>It took a minute to gain my footing in the absolute flood of gamers geeking out over all the new releases and old favorites making an appearance at the con, but it wasn&#x27;t long before that excitement turned contagious and I was buying too many games to be considered responsible.</li></ul>🤓 Justin&#x27;s thought bubble: As an old nerd who has been covering and attending Gen Con for the past 13 years, the best part is always seeing first-timers&#x27; eyes light up when they hit the show floor.<ul><li>So checking out all the sights with Arika during her first outing was an absolute, 10-out-of-10 joy.</li></ul>Yes, but: For me, Gen Con is all about meeting the makers. And the talent in the room this year was staggering.<ul><li>A highlight was my time chatting with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Jerry Pesce" data-vars-click-url="https://www.pesceffects.com/splash" data-vars-content-id="72875a73-a7e6-43f1-a349-d3b555e5926a" data-vars-headline="The coolest stuff we saw at Gen Con 2026" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.pesceffects.com/splash" target="_blank">Jerry Pesce</a>, an artist who spent years doing lighting for rock concerts before realizing he had a gift worth sharing with the world. </li><li>&quot;I&#x27;ve been drawing for 40 years,&quot; Pesce said. &quot;One day I was just drawing before a concert and someone said, &#x27;Hey, man, you should sell your art.&#x27; But I didn&#x27;t really think anyone would want to buy it.&quot;</li><li>&quot;Thirteen years later, here I am at Gen Con.&quot;</li></ul><figure><img alt="Bearded man with glasses behind a counter giving a thumbs-up, with neon-colored posters and canvases on the wall showing sci-fi, space, and cartoon artwork." height="2252" id="80126189-36d7-4365-8c9c-c591fe95b2cf" src="https://images.axios.com/g03H05sBzkCTJP1HGXOuw_rGZiA=/2026/07/31/1785523033944.jpeg" width="4000"/><figcaption>Jerry Pesce, an artist who creates glowing pop-culture pieces on metal, poses while flanked by his creations. Photo: Justin L. Mack/Axios</figcaption></figure>Here are more of the coolest things we saw at Gen Con 2026. ❤️ Approximately 1,000 different takes on &quot;Dungeon Crawler Carl&quot; characters. To say people are ready for the book series&#x27; new RPG that got its con debut. 🏈 Lucas Oil Stadium transformed into a giant gaming floor for Gen Con. It served as a hub for Magic players, hosted the convention&#x27;s game library, and even had a life-size starship bridge simulator. <ul><li>Plus: The hallways served as breakout spaces for all kinds of events — like a kids workshop that started training the next generation of LARPers with foam shields and pool noodle swords. It doesn&#x27;t get much cuter, folks. </li></ul><figure><img alt="Group of six indoors, wearing bright Capri Sun pouch-pattern outfits and colorful heart-shaped sunglasses; they smile in a sunny atrium with banners and a construction site outside." height="3213" id="9ae8cb44-71d9-45f9-956d-4fb8fd490d0f" src="https://images.axios.com/Nz5eYPLS2xxGrYtI9VYfkbKPHo8=/2026/08/02/1785714997771.jpeg" width="5712" srcset="https://images.axios.com/hQDx2qJmzC6kD5C3eWmWyphGgME=/0x0:5712x3213/1920x1080/2026/08/02/1785714997771.jpeg?w=1920 1920w, https://images.axios.com/6n5RPKyZV1WVR0m6r6OFNtkjAOc=/0x0:5712x3213/1600x900/2026/08/02/1785714997771.jpeg?w=1600 1600w, https://images.axios.com/QFZBgVV5jlOzOUGto32aE1U215k=/0x0:5712x3213/1366x768/2026/08/02/1785714997771.jpeg?w=1366 1366w, https://images.axios.com/rcliyoXbkjvLHgwiFv2EebtNYec=/0x0:5712x3213/1024x576/2026/08/02/1785714997771.jpeg?w=1024 1024w, https://images.axios.com/S_0B3fBmbTGmkp4pCK4Sk52QuY8=/0x0:5712x3213/768x432/2026/08/02/1785714997771.jpeg?w=768 768w, https://images.axios.com/tkV4iXOVoBdjHR_6aE-By-5Fcs4=/0x0:5712x3213/640x360/2026/08/02/1785714997771.jpeg?w=640 640w, https://images.axios.com/vFqJKUclYXNA4F-DfeHiStGigpw=/0x0:5712x3213/320x180/2026/08/02/1785714997771.jpeg?w=320 320w"/><figcaption>Emma Conti (middle) sewed the women&#x27;s outfits and said the hardest part was drinking all the Capri Sun. Photo: Arika Herron/Axios</figcaption></figure>🧙 The creativity! All the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="handmade costumes" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/p/DbidfkeOHyE/?hl=en" data-vars-content-id="72875a73-a7e6-43f1-a349-d3b555e5926a" data-vars-headline="The coolest stuff we saw at Gen Con 2026" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DbidfkeOHyE/?hl=en" target="_blank">handmade costumes</a> were legitimately stunning. Makers, your time and passion were evident, and we are in awe of you.⚔️ Something for literally everyone, from a quiet open crafting room and miniature painting stations to massive strategy games and some very intense LARPing.🎲 Gaming tables, with removable tops to reveal a gaming surface so you never need to pack up a game or sacrifice your dining table. <figure><img alt="Busy convention center with yellow walls and large banners, including a teal QR-code poster. Foreground shows vendors with tall stacks of display towers while attendees browse; balcony above with people." height="2268" id="5a8ea5f0-120b-42a7-b03b-8d6eee33ad2c" src="https://images.axios.com/rDHVzxGhp1vdmKA4fZmP9Ic8aQY=/2026/08/03/1785715309460.jpeg" width="4032" srcset="https://images.axios.com/PzJP2kSQOJ2gmZ11jsGRJS5_DaY=/0x0:4032x2268/1920x1080/2026/08/03/1785715309460.jpeg?w=1920 1920w, https://images.axios.com/PM98lKJOK_fRlcpejfgJZLfuE-M=/0x0:4032x2268/1600x900/2026/08/03/1785715309460.jpeg?w=1600 1600w, https://images.axios.com/osYaqTKPC6MQiwvvMbQZ0RVZmEA=/0x0:4032x2268/1366x768/2026/08/03/1785715309460.jpeg?w=1366 1366w, https://images.axios.com/e4-K0Q6uQO-7Ng0DB6W_Oq9pOrI=/0x0:4032x2268/1024x576/2026/08/03/1785715309460.jpeg?w=1024 1024w, https://images.axios.com/nGt5VboD8JhX38TRgSCz0wnoWJ4=/0x0:4032x2268/768x432/2026/08/03/1785715309460.jpeg?w=768 768w, https://images.axios.com/OXEp48H25FVoxH50KXAfTHTA6-o=/0x0:4032x2268/640x360/2026/08/03/1785715309460.jpeg?w=640 640w, https://images.axios.com/Gp0xRUG7aS5txtph9YoQ2CT8R5o=/0x0:4032x2268/320x180/2026/08/03/1785715309460.jpeg?w=320 320w"/><figcaption>Cardhalla, mid-build. Photo: Arika Herron/Axios</figcaption></figure>🃏 Cardhalla, a weekend-long house-of-cards build unlike anything you&#x27;ve ever seen. It gets built over days and then torn down for charity.🪪 Floor-dragging badge beards. IYKYK.🐲 A D&amp;D-themed <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="drone show" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/p/DbhYi1lsmjM/?hl=en" data-vars-content-id="72875a73-a7e6-43f1-a349-d3b555e5926a" data-vars-headline="The coolest stuff we saw at Gen Con 2026" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DbhYi1lsmjM/?hl=en" target="_blank">drone show</a> that lit up the night.

Your weekend plans: Yoga on the canal, Gen Con Block Party, free festivals and more

This weekend, skip the studio and get in a free downtown yoga workout with a skyline view.

This weekend, skip the studio and get in a free yoga workout with a skyline view.Driving the news: The Indianapolis Cultural Trail&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Full Moon Yoga Party" data-vars-click-url="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/full-moon-yoga-party-tickets-1992846401232?aff=odeimcmailchimp&amp;mc_cid=1308284036&amp;mc_eid=d8e9fc9a88" data-vars-content-id="32381d2d-286d-40f3-9428-eee163feda3a" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Yoga on the canal, Gen Con Block Party, free festivals and more" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/full-moon-yoga-party-tickets-1992846401232?aff=odeimcmailchimp&amp;mc_cid=1308284036&amp;mc_eid=d8e9fc9a88" target="_blank">Full Moon Yoga Party</a> returns to the Downtown Canal on Saturday night.

30 over 30: The Indianapolis Museum of Art

The latest installment in our series featuring city institutions looks at Newfields.

Welcome back to Axios Indianapolis&#x27; &quot;30 Over 30,&quot; a series celebrating the icons that have shaped our city for 30 years or more.There may be no better respite from the summer heat than the cool, quiet galleries of the Indianapolis Museum of Art.Why it matters: Few institutions have endured or evolved more than the city&#x27;s premier art museum, first established nearly 150 years ago.

Local game studio's debut accepted to Gen Con

Fractured Oath is the first game from indie developer RetroMonki.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="RetroMonki" data-vars-click-url="http://retromonkicreations.weeblysite.com/" data-vars-content-id="dfa624c7-80f4-4da5-aa28-ddfcd00f1042" data-vars-headline="Local game studio&#x27;s debut accepted to Gen Con" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="http://retromonkicreations.weeblysite.com/" target="_blank">RetroMonki</a>, an indie game studio founded by six students and recent graduates of IU&#x27;s Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering, will publicly playtest their <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="debut game &quot;Fractured Oath" data-vars-click-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKtpWZKuNYg" data-vars-content-id="dfa624c7-80f4-4da5-aa28-ddfcd00f1042" data-vars-headline="Local game studio&#x27;s debut accepted to Gen Con" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKtpWZKuNYg" target="_blank">debut game &quot;Fractured Oath</a>&quot; at this year&#x27;s Gen Con.The big picture: Getting &quot;Fractured Oath&quot; off the ground is the first step toward the group&#x27;s much larger mission to create a game studio right here in Indianapolis to support the next generation of designers.<ul><li>&quot;We&#x27;re trying to make our studio be where people can get a chance to intern, to get their foot in the door,&quot; RetroMonki CEO Nomar Reyes told Axios.</li></ul>

Brickyard 400, wine and cheese festival and other weekend events

Racing is back at IMS Saturday and Sunday.

Start your engines — it&#x27;s Brickyard baby.Driving the news: NASCAR is back at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for a weekend of racing.

30 Over 30: St. Elmo Steak House marks 124 years

The downtown icon has been serving steaks, clearing sinuses and attracting celebs for more than a century.

Welcome back to Axios Indianapolis&#x27; &quot;30 Over 30,&quot; a series celebrating the icons that have shaped our city for 30 years or more.Few things say &quot;welcome to Indianapolis&quot; quite like watching a first-timer&#x27;s eyes water in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="St. Elmo Steak House" data-vars-click-url="https://www.stelmos.com/" data-vars-content-id="824bab6e-7042-408b-81b4-abc092f7e53b" data-vars-headline="30 Over 30: St. Elmo Steak House marks 124 years" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.stelmos.com/" target="_blank">St. Elmo Steak House</a> from a little too much cocktail sauce.The big picture: The 124-year-old dining experience is more than a classy place for Hoosiers to eat steak and clear their sinuses. It&#x27;s shorthand for hospitality in a city that <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="stakes its national reputation" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2026/01/22/indianapolis-tourism-nfl-combine-ncaa-final-four" data-vars-content-id="824bab6e-7042-408b-81b4-abc092f7e53b" data-vars-headline="30 Over 30: St. Elmo Steak House marks 124 years" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2026/01/22/indianapolis-tourism-nfl-combine-ncaa-final-four" target="_self">stakes its national reputation</a> on being a top-tier host town.

Get your bread up at Paris Baguette in Carmel

Paris Baguette made its Indiana debut in late April in HamCo.

Food and Drink

If you like carbs, one of Carmel&#x27;s newest cafe options is an easy recommendation.Driving the news: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Paris Baguette" data-vars-click-url="https://parisbaguette.com/about/" data-vars-content-id="d1872343-6878-43d6-a79f-c0ea64dd32b4" data-vars-headline="Get your bread up at Paris Baguette in Carmel" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://parisbaguette.com/about/" target="_blank">Paris Baguette</a> made its Indiana debut in late April, settling in between the also new-ish <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Ben &amp; Jerry&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/p/Ben-Jerrys-Carmel-61582235664944/" data-vars-content-id="d1872343-6878-43d6-a79f-c0ea64dd32b4" data-vars-headline="Get your bread up at Paris Baguette in Carmel" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/p/Ben-Jerrys-Carmel-61582235664944/" target="_blank">Ben &amp; Jerry&#x27;s</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Okonori Japanese" data-vars-click-url="https://www.okonori.com/" data-vars-content-id="d1872343-6878-43d6-a79f-c0ea64dd32b4" data-vars-headline="Get your bread up at Paris Baguette in Carmel" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.okonori.com/" target="_blank">Okonori Japanese</a> locations near the corner of 116th Street and South Rangeline Road.

Cheesecake Factory going strong at the Fashion Mall

The casual chain is as popular as ever, for good reason.

A recent trip to the Fashion Mall had me mourning the closure of yet another great restaurant (RIP Mimi Blue&#x27;s and Public Greens).Driving the news: Napolese Pizzeria <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="closed its Fashion Mall location last month" data-vars-click-url="https://fox59.com/news/napolese-pizzeria-set-to-close-in-fashion-mall/" data-vars-content-id="1986703c-1fee-4a46-80d9-552f86d1dffe" data-vars-headline="Cheesecake Factory going strong at the Fashion Mall" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://fox59.com/news/napolese-pizzeria-set-to-close-in-fashion-mall/" target="_blank">closed its Fashion Mall location last month</a>, leaving hungry shoppers with fewer options outside of the food court.

Niyyah Coffee opening Mass Ave location

This will be the local chain's fourth Indy-area location.

Niyyah Coffee is about to open its fourth location in the Indianapolis area.Why it matters: The coffee shop will occupy prime real estate on one of the city&#x27;s busiest pedestrian corridors. And, the founders say, it will be the city&#x27;s first deaf-owned coffee shop.

Hoosier biochemists, brewers pour up America's past for its 250th birthday

Indiana University scientists are working with Hoosier breweries and old trees to toast America.

Indiana University scientists are working with Indiana breweries to give Hoosiers a taste of the nation&#x27;s past.Driving the brews: In honor of America&#x27;s 250th, researchers from IU&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="molecular &amp; cellular biochemistry" data-vars-click-url="https://mcb.indiana.edu/index.html" data-vars-content-id="4df39606-be25-4eb4-9e61-922727fb0f4a" data-vars-headline="Hoosier biochemists, brewers pour up America&#x27;s past for its 250th birthday" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://mcb.indiana.edu/index.html" target="_blank">molecular &amp; cellular biochemistry</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="biology" data-vars-click-url="https://biology.indiana.edu/index.html" data-vars-content-id="4df39606-be25-4eb4-9e61-922727fb0f4a" data-vars-headline="Hoosier biochemists, brewers pour up America&#x27;s past for its 250th birthday" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://biology.indiana.edu/index.html" target="_blank">biology</a> departments are using isolated yeast from 250-year-old oak trees to help craft the first 1776-inspired beer.

Farmers market season has arrived. Here's a dozen around Indianapolis to visit.

You can find a market most days of the week.

April showers have given way to spring produce, which means it&#x27;s farmers&#x27; market season.Driving the news: Here are a dozen area farmers&#x27; markets, most of which are already open for the season.

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