McCormick prepares to announce lieutenant governor pick
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McCormick at a press conference earlier this week. Photo: Arika Herron/Axios
Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jennifer McCormick says last weekend's Republican state convention is an example of why she left the GOP.
The big picture: Republican delegates chose far-right Christian pastor Micah Beckwith as their candidate for lieutenant governor, over the wishes of U.S. Sen. Mike Braun, who will lead their ticket after winning the primary in May.
- A last-minute endorsement from former President Trump wasn't enough to push Braun's pick, state Rep. Julie McGuire, to victory.
- Beckwith, who campaigned for the role for more than a year, is largely expected to continue pushing the entire party to the right.
What they're saying: "To put someone in that position from either party that is not equipped to do that job is irresponsible. They are a heartbeat away from the governor's office," McCormick said during a press conference earlier this week.
Driving the news: McCormick, who ran as a Republican when she was elected to lead the state's education department in 2016, is expected to announce her running mate Thursday afternoon.
- McCormick said her pick for lieutenant governor is "a person of character." She added that they're skilled, competent and focused on public service.
- She added that they're "in lockstep" on issues including women's reproductive rights, supporting unions, improving infrastructure, prioritizing education and universal pre-K.
The intrigue: Though it's unlikely, the Democrats could follow the GOP's footsteps and select a candidate other than McCormick's pick.
- Former Indianapolis mayoral candidate Clif Marsiglio and perennial candidate Bob Kern have filed for the nomination.
The other side: "Mike Braun and Micah Beckwith have a vision to make Indiana the most entrepreneurial state and improve the lives of Hoosiers, while Jennifer McCormick is still trying to convince someone, anyone, to be her liberal running mate," Josh Kelley, a senior Braun adviser, said.
What's next: Delegates will vote on the Democratic lieutenant governor candidate at the state party convention in downtown Indianapolis July 13.