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Councilman Owen Vs. Councilman Hawkins?
Councilman Matt Owen MAY (and I emphasize MAY in this sentence) have a Republican primary challenger in fellow Councilman of the Jeffersonville's 6th District; Scott Hawkins. This race would decide who would be the Republican on the November ballot for Indiana District 71 formally held by Rep. Steve Stemler.
The Democrats have yet to have anyone announce to try and fill Representative Stemler's fiscally conservative well respected democrat shoes. *INSERT CRICKET NOISES HERE*
Apparently Councilman Hawkins is currently doing some diligence in weighing his options and him running is one the table. However with the Republican 9th District and County Chairman Jamey Noel endorsing Matt Owen for this seat, it's already clear that Scott would have an up-hill battle within the local and potentially the state party.
But I have to be honest, I take Hawkins as a "I don't care what you think" and "I'll do this with or without you" kind of guy. I don't mean that in a negative way by any means, only that he is not afraid to use the head on top of his shoulders for original thoughts. That very well may be the case here.
Should Councilman Hawkins announce, it would put the May primaries on the list of races to watch. Both are strong within their bases but with Owen being an At-Large Councilman, part of his base is also within Hawkins' base. Although, on the other hand, the rest of the City is Owen's base.
IF Hawkins announces, don't count either candidate out too early. They are both strong and my prediction is that it would come down to a hand full of votes.
IF Owen remains the only Republican candidate I'd still like to see the Democrats at least put up a fight to retain the seat.
BUT the only way they are going to be able to do that is with some new additions to the party.
UNLESS another At-Large Councilman takes his hat and wholeheartedly throws it in the ring.
What are your thoughts? Do you have the scoop?
Share in the comments below.