Remembering Gov. Frank L. O’Bannon of Indiana 20 Years Later, and Why We Need More Like Him

My opinions as a moderate Democrat were shaped by serving under Frank, who became the last Democrat elected as governor by the people of Indiana.

Gov, Frank L. O’Bannon of Indiana in 1999. I helped to reëlect him to a second term in 2000 — which became the last time any Democrat has been elected as governor of The Hoosier State. (Photo from Wikipedia’s entry on FOB.)

In 2000, which was 23 years ago, Hoosiers reëlected Frank Lewis O’Bannon of Corydon as the 47th governor of Indiana. It turned out to be the last time any Democrat has won election as governor in Indiana.

I was privileged to serve on his team in state government and as communications director of the Indiana Democratic Party during the 2000 campaign cycle.

Today, I am in print in The Indianapolis Star recalling the lessons I learned from Frank and explaining why I think the United States (and Indiana) need more leaders like him. He shaped my views as a moderate Democrat today.

I am grateful to my dear friend and mentor, Robin Winston of Indianapolis, for suggesting that I write about FOB and submit my article to The Star.

That link is:

https://www.indystar.com/story/opinion/2023/09/09/frank-obannon-leader-indiana-needs-governor-more-of-again/70729515007/