With less than 48 hours until Election Day, both local political parties are holding their breath. While Donald Trump is likely to win Indiana and Eric Holcomb is likely to win re-election, the outcome in Hamilton County is not so certain, especially for the local Congressional seat. Republican Victoria Spartz and Democrat Christina Hale are locked in a tight race for the Fifth District seat vacated by Rep. Susan Brooks.
Democrats hope to make a major breakthrough in our traditionally Republican county. The GOP hopes to maintain its hold on local offices at stake Tuesday.
All agree it is a most important election with federal, state and county offices on the ballot, not to mention non-partisan school board races in all six local districts.
In most elections, the county is able to deliver large pluralities for Republican candidates for Congress, governor and other state-level office seekers. Most observers see reduced pluralities this year.
But, for local office it would be hard to imagine a Democratic sweep. Democrats have done little in the way of taking positions on issues or advertising their slate of candidates. Republicans have done some campaigning and advertising, but largely have been content to let their record speak for itself.
Democrats’ best chances seem to be in races for the state legislature. Incumbents Todd Huston and Jerry Torr are both believed to be in close races with Democratic challengers.
Some elective offices are going unopposed to GOP incumbents, including a county commissioner seat, a county council seat and judgeships in five local courts.
It is a most unusual election, and thousands of early voter and absentee ballots must be counted, which will add to the suspense. The tallying could result in outcomes not being known on election night.
The Reporter will publish at least partial results Wednesday, and final results when they become available.