State House – District 40
 

Robert Pope

Robert Pope

Party: Democrat
Age: 42
Campaign Site: https://pope4indiana.com
Education: Harrison College, B.S. Information Technology (2013)
Experience:
⦁ Avon Town Council (2019 - Present)
⦁ Software Engineer at the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs
⦁ U.S. Army active duty (4 years)

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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?

Education Quality & Funding and Infrastructure & Traffic Management;

Avon is known for its strong public schools, but there are growing concerns about maintaining education quality amid rapid population growth. Funding has not always kept pace with the needs of the community. I will advocate for increased state funding for public schools to ensure that Avon’s students have the resources they need to succeed. I will also push for policies that support teacher retention and recruitment, including competitive salaries and professional development opportunities. Additionally, I will support initiatives that encourage parental and community involvement in schools, fostering a stronger educational environment for all students.

As we continue to grow, traffic congestion and infrastructure challenges have become significant concerns. Residents face long commutes and safety issues due to the increased traffic, particularly on major roads like U.S. Highway 36. I will work to secure funding for infrastructure improvements and public transit. My goal is to reduce congestion, improve safety, and ensure that Avon’s infrastructure keeps pace with its growth.

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. However, your vote is your power to influence change. When you vote, you help shape the policies that affect your daily life. By voting, you ensure that your voice is heard and that your community's needs are represented.

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?

To address economic anxiety and rising prices, we need to focus on three key areas: lowering costs, boosting wages, and strengthening local economies. First, I will advocate for policies that reduce the costs of essentials like healthcare, housing, and energy, such as expanding affordable housing programs and increasing transparency in medical pricing. Second, I'll push for wage growth by supporting workforce development programs and encouraging businesses to offer competitive pay. Finally, I’ll work to attract and support local businesses, ensuring a strong, resilient economy that benefits all Hoosiers.
 

Endorsements
Vote Vets
Action Fund
Planned Parenthood
Better Indiana
Mad Voters
Moms Demand Action
UAW Region 2B
Candidates for Common Good
Our Choice Coalition

Notable Donors - Source
ActBlue Donations
Kenneth Getch
Better Indiana PAC
Blake Hesch
John Taylor
Mechelle Callen
Michael Rowe
Robert Blake Johnson
 

 

Gregory Steuerwald

Gregory Steuerwald

Incumbent
Party: Republican
Age: 72
Campaign Site: https://gregsteuerwald.com
Education: Indiana State University, B.S. Preparatory Education (1974); University of Alabama, M.A. Criminal Justice (1977); Indiana University, J.D. (1981)
Experience:
⦁ Indiana State House of Representatives (2007 - Present)
     ‣ Majority Caucus Chair
     ‣ Judiciary Committee
⦁ Attorney with Steuerwald, Witham and Youngs, LLP (1981 - Present)

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Q&A

Candidate did not fill out WFYI's survey.
 

Notable Donors - Source
Indiana Republican State Committee Inc.
Indiana Realtors PAC
Indiana BANKPAC
Catalyst Public Affairs Group
House Republican Campaign Committee
Beer Industry PAC
Hoosiers for Quality Education PAC
Duke Energy Corporation PAC
Indiana Assn. of Beverage Retailers - Good Gov’t Fund
Indiana Multi Family Housing PAC