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The Hamilton County Democratic Party held its inaugural Torchbearer Gala on Friday, Nov. 14 at The Hawthorns Golf and Country Club in Fishers, bringing together elected officials, candidates, party leaders, and community members for an evening themed “A Light in the Darkness.”
County Party Chair Josh Lowry emphasized the event’s focus on momentum and investment in local leadership.
“We didn’t choose our speakers by chance,” Lowry said. “We chose the future of the Democratic Party, because everything we’re building is aimed at supporting and investing in our 2026 candidates and beyond.”
Photo provided by Hamilton County Democratic Party
The gala featured keynote remarks from Terre Haute Mayor Brandon Sakbun, State Senator Andrea Hunley, as well as video messages from Congressman Ro Khanna and newly sworn-in Congresswoman Adelita Grijalva. Other attendees included State Senator JD Ford, State Representative Dr. Victoria Garcia Wilburn, Fishers City Councilman Bill Stuart, Carmel City Council Member Dr. Anita Joshi, and State Representative Carey Hamilton (Indianapolis).
The guests of honor were the candidates for the state legislature in 2026: Racheal Bleicher for House District 24, Joel Levi for House District 37, Lasima Packett for State Senate District 31, Stephanie Jo Yocum for House District 88, and Tiffany Stoner for House District 25. All of the House and Senate candidates are leading the way to help break the Republican supermajority.
Photo provided by Hamilton County Democratic Party
Nocona Canady-Flatt, the HamCo Dems Events Chair, closed the night with gratitude for the community members who made the gala possible.
“Thank you to every single person who bought tickets, donated a Young Dems ticket, contributed, or volunteered in any way,” Canady-Flatt said. “You continue to fight through the fatigue of the endless news cycle to show that hope is possible, change is necessary, accountability is worth fighting for, and that light always defeats darkness. You matter and the future world we work for thanks you, as do I. May we all continue to hold the torch to light our path through the dark.”
About the Hamilton County Democratic Party
The Hamilton County Democratic Party works to engage voters, support candidates, and build a more inclusive and representative future for all residents of Hamilton County. Through community outreach, volunteer engagement, and ongoing efforts to uplift Democratic values, the organization is committed to fostering positive change at every level of government. To learn more about how to get involved with the Hamilton County Democratic Party, visit hamcodemsin.org.