05.24.07
If Goode runs for Congress, county benefits

Tribune-Star Editorial
Terre Haute Tribune-Star

Democrat Brad Ellsworth, the former sheriff of Vanderburgh County who ousted longtime U.S. Rep. John Hostettler from his congressional seat last fall, should have a special place in his heart for Vigo County voters. They overwhelmingly supported him in his 8th District run.

It may seem odd, then, that Ellsworth’s next political challenger could come from an area in which he enjoyed so much success.

Terre Haute’s Greg Goode, executive assistant to the president for external affairs at Indiana State University, acknowledged this week he is seriously considering a run for the Republican nomination for the 8th District congressional seat next year.

While Vigo County is a local Democratic stronghold, Republicans traditionally have done well here in elections above the county level. Former Rep. John Myers was a popular vote-getter as a Republican, as was former Rep. Ed Pease, Gov. Mitch Daniels, Sen. Richard Lugar and President Bush. It should come as no surprise that west-central Indiana could produce a viable GOP congressional candidate.

Goode has never sought political office, but is no stranger to the process. He is the ultimate political insider, having served as a legislative assistant for 7th District Rep. Pease and chief of staff for former 7th District Rep. Brian Kerns before taking on the job as ISU’s chief government lobbyist.

Those who know Goode and have worked with him have high praise for his abilities. They say he is smart, articulate and well-informed on public policy issues. ISU has benefited from his presence as an advocate and lobbyist. Most of his work has occurred behind the scenes, but his reputation indicates he would have little trouble making the transition from supporting cast to leading man.

Goode no doubt understands how difficult it will be to take on an incumbent, although such a role is easier to manage in the competitive 8th District than in most other congressional districts. Still, Ellsworth ran extremely well in 2006, garnered tremendous positive name recognition for the campaign he ran and is barely five months into his new job in Washington. D.C.

A final decision probably isn’t imminent for Goode, but he can’t afford to wait too long. The demands of raising money and organizing a congressional campaign are heavy. There’s not a lot of time to waste with an election very two years.

If Goode decides to give it a shot and can win the Republican nomination, it will mean a compelling campaign, especially here in Vigo County. Having a local name on the ballot for such a high-profile election should add a level of interest and competition that enhances the political process.

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