State House – District 29

 

Christopher Hartig

Christopher Hartig

Party: Democrat
Age: 53
Campaign Site: https://www.drchrisforindiana.com
Education: Ball State University, B.S. Economics; Minor in Philosophy (1994); Western Governors University, MBA Management and Strategy (2012); University of Notre Dame, Advanced Specialized Certificate in Intercultural Management (2013)
Experience:
⦁ Principal Investigator and Statistics for the Firearms Research Institute (2021 - Present)
⦁ Western Governors University (2015 - Present)
     ‣ Program Faculty - Mentor Business UG (2015 - 2021)
     ‣ Course Instructor - College of Business (2021 - Present)

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Q&A

What do you consider the two most important issues facing Hoosiers who will see your name on their ballot this November? And if elected, what policies will you push for to address each one?

First, personal freedoms are at the heart of what it means to be an American. This includes the right to make private decisions about one’s own body, free from government interference. I will fight to ensure that reproductive rights are safeguarded, ensuring that all Hoosiers have access to the healthcare they need and deserve.

Second, a strong public education system is essential for the future of our state. Every child in Indiana deserves a quality education that prepares them for success, regardless of their background or where they live. I will advocate for policies that increase funding for public schools, support our teachers, and ensure that every student has access to the resources they need to thrive.

If elected, I will advocate for the implementation of referendums and ballot initiatives in Indiana, providing a more direct form of democracy that can address the needs and concerns of our communities more effectively. This approach ensures that every citizen has a real stake in the direction our state takes, reinforcing the importance of personal freedoms and public education as we move forward.

We've heard from many in our audience that they feel frustrated — sometimes disenfranchised — by our current political landscape. These feelings sometimes contribute to people deciding not to vote, and Indiana consistently ranks near the bottom of the list on voter turnout. What would you say to a potential voter who feels this way?

I understand the frustration and feelings of disenfranchisement that many in our community are experiencing. District 29 has been under Republican control for far too long, and Indiana has been governed by Republicans for over two decades. It's no wonder that some feel like their voices aren't being heard. But I want to remind you that your vote is your power—it's your way of making sure that your concerns are addressed and that our government works for everyone, not just a select few.

When voter turnout is low, the status quo remains unchanged. By not voting, we allow the same leaders to continue making decisions that may not reflect the needs and desires of our community. This November, we have an opportunity to bring real change to District 29. By casting your vote, you're not just choosing a candidate—you're choosing a future where your voice matters, where personal freedoms are protected, and where our public education system is strengthened. It's time for a change, and that change starts with you.

Economic anxiety is top of mind for many in our audience and around the country, with a common concern being inflation and the high price of basic needs. In all the complexity around economic issues, what specific changes need to happen to help Hoosiers and their families?

Economic anxiety is a major concern for Hoosiers, especially with rising inflation and the high cost of basic needs.* To address this, we need to raise the minimum wage so that hard-working Hoosiers can earn a living wage and afford essentials like housing, food, and healthcare. We must also invest in affordable housing and healthcare to reduce the financial strain on families.

Additionally, prioritizing job creation and workforce development, particularly in high-growth industries like renewable energy and technology, will ensure Hoosiers have the skills they need to thrive. With the right leadership, we can make meaningful progress toward a stable and prosperous future for all. It's time to put the needs of our families first and build an economy that works for everyone.

*Editor’s note: For context, while many shoppers see inflation in gas and grocery prices, after climbing sharply in 2022 and 2023, grocery prices rose less than 1% in the last twelve months and were unchanged between July and August. Here is more reporting on that from NPR.
 

Endorsements - Source
Candidates for Common Good
Our Choice Coalition
ICPE
UAW

Notable Donors - Source
ActBlue Donations
Tricia Owen
Merryrenee Design Studios Inc.
Cheryl Holt
Chris Hartig
Nancy Owen
 

 

Alaina Shonkwiler

Alaina Shonkwiler

Party: Republican
Age: 41
Campaign Site: https://www.alainafornoblesville.com
Education: Noblesville HS (2001); Indiana University, B.A. Public Affairs Management, Minor in Nonprofit management; Oklahoma University Economic Development Institute (2016); North Central University, M.S. Organizational Leadership, Public Administration (2024)
Experience:
⦁ Manager in Government Advisory with Katz, Sapper & Miller (2023 - Present)
⦁ Director of Community and Economic Development for the Veridus Group (2022 - 2023)
⦁ District Director for Congresswoman Victoria Spartz, IN-05 (2021 - 2022)

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Q&A

What do you consider the two most important issues facing Hoosiers who will see your name on their ballot this November? And if elected, what policies will you push for to address each one?

As I speak with neighbors throughout the community, I often hear of two topics on voters’ minds – rising inflation and cost of living, and safe streets. I am a proud low-tax conservative, and have signed the Americans for Tax Reform’s Taxpayer Protection Pledge to never raise your taxes. I don’t believe taking more of your hard-earned money is the answer, and I’ll look for ways to ensure our priorities are funded, while not further burdening families. That includes working to lower property taxes, particularly helping younger families and seniors. And as a police wife and mother, I’ll always back the blue. Safety is paramount to all else, and it’s crucial for us to support the men and women in law enforcement, while ensuring they have all tools at their disposal to do their jobs effectively and safely.

We've heard from many in our audience that they feel frustrated — sometimes disenfranchised — by our current political landscape. These feelings sometimes contribute to people deciding not to vote, and Indiana consistently ranks near the bottom of the list on voter turnout. What would you say to a potential voter who feels this way?

Our political process is best served when there are more voices, and more seats at the table. I encourage civic participation at all levels – from getting involved in local clubs and groups, to helping candidates who reflect your values, and even running for office yourself. None of us can make a difference if we don’t try, and that starts with the simple, crucial task of voting. We are blessed with the right to vote, we are fortunate to have the ability to allow our voices to be heard, and we must use them!

Economic anxiety is top of mind for many in our audience and around the country, with a common concern being inflation and the high price of basic needs. In all the complexity around economic issues, what specific changes need to happen to help Hoosiers and their families?

Fixing our economy is a complex task, but the solution is simple. We must spend wisely, cut waste in government, and allow Hoosiers to keep more of what they earn. Through decades of strong conservative leadership, Indiana is faring much better than many states through the hardships caused by reckless policies from the White House, but there is still more we can do. The legislature has already taken steps to form a task force to evaluate potential changes to the property tax structure, and if given the opportunity to serve, I look forward to being closely involved in that process. Families shouldn’t suffer due to no fault of their own, and it’s incumbent on legislators to help.
 

Endorsements
Scott Baldwin
Aaron Smith
Indiana Manufacturers PAC
Luke Kenley
Steven Nation
Fraternal Order of Police - Noblesville Lodge 198, Hamilton County Lodge 103
Onezone Chamber of Commerce BAC

Notable Donors - Source
Indiana Business for Responsive Government
Christopher T Jensen Campaign
Insurance PAC
Business Advocacy Committee
Card & Associates Athletic Facilities LLC
Elect Republican Women
Spartz for Congress
Greg Lannan
Stephanie Sommervold