Robin Shackleford announces run for Indianapolis mayor

The 2023 Indianapolis mayoral race is already underway as State Rep. Robin Shackleford (D-Indianapolis) announces her run.

During her campaign announcement Thursday at the Madame Walker Theater Shackleford said the decision did not come lightly.

“It came down to one phrase that kept running through my head, we can do better,” Shackleford said.

If elected, Shackleford would be the first Black, and first female mayor of Indianapolis. She said the city can do more for marginalized residents.

“We need to bridge the gap between the two different versions of Indianapolis and prioritize making Indy a safer place to live, work, play and raise a family,” she said.

Shackleford says her priorities are public safety through root causes, better equality in economic growth and improved infrastructure. Increased affordable housing would also be a focus.

“As mayor, I will work to increase affordability and equity in housing and develop a plan to encourage development without displacement,” she said.

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogestt has not announced whether or not he will run for a third term in office.  Earlier this year, Shackleford was outspoken about disagreements within the Marion County Democratic Party and did not participate in the candidate slating process. 

Shackleford ran unopposed and was re-elected to the Indiana House of Representatives in District 98 Tuesday.  She has served in that role since 2012.

If elected in 2024, she would be the first Black and first female mayor of Indianapolis.