Three Lake politicians measure the buzz for next governor

CROWN POINT | Lake County Sheriff Rogelio "Roy" Dominguez has been patrolling the Hoosier state in recent weeks in search of community leaders willing to talk to him about who should be the next governor.

Two of Lake County's other favorite sons may be staking out the governor's mansion in 2012 when Gov. Mitch Daniels steps down, and a free-for-all in both parties is expected among those with aspirations to replace him.

Dominguez said it isn't too early to explore his chances, given the breadth of the geography any serious candidate must cover.

"I've met with many different party leaders in a listening tour in Lawrenceburg, Seymour, Clarksville, Columbia City, Elkhart and Indianapolis to talk about the issues facing Hoosiers, and I have been well received," Dominguez said. He noted he also spoke with Democrats from across the state recently before the Jefferson Jackson Dinner in Indianapolis.

Hammond Mayor Thomas McDermott Jr. has widened his horizons lately, too.

"Being a 40-year-old county chairman is interesting to people around the state, and doors are opening for me," he said.

"I've heard my name mentioned (for governor), and it's flattering. I want to make it clear the next election you'll see my name on the ballot will be for re-election for Hammond mayor in 2011. What is really important for me, keeping the job I have. If I do a good job as mayor and get re-elected by a big margin and they are still mentioning my name in 2012, I'll take a look at it."

Indiana Secretary of State Todd Rokita, a Munster native and a Republican, has heard his named touted for governor in 2012. Jim Gavin, a spokesman, said Friday, "Todd Rokita views any speculation as a reflection on the accomplishments of the Secretary of State's office to date. He takes the duties of his current office seriously and will continue to do so throughout his second term."

However, given the area's reputation for high taxes, official corruption and lack of unity among its disheveled political powers, each is expected to be confronted with the question of whether they have any chance of becoming the first governor in the state's history to call Lake County home.

"It is true Lake County is unlike other counties," Robert L. Dion, associate professor of political science at the University of Evansville, said recently. "If it were a Lake County candidate, you would have to anticipate that kind of attack."

Rokita has portrayed himself as being in the forefront of the fight against Lake County corruption.

Dominguez said, "No one has expressed to me, privately or otherwise, that a Democrat from Lake County cannot win. In fact, people are excited about the possibility of a candidate from Lake County, because the county will give the party a strong plurality."

McDermott said, "If I would become a serious candidate, I would take that myth about Lake County head on and talk about the fact I'm from Lake County and I've got a great record," he said adding Rokita and former Indiana Attorney General Steve Carter, a Lowell native, have had statewide success.

Evansville Mayor Jonathan Weinzapfel and U.S. Rep. Baron Hill, of Seymour, also have been mentioned as possible Democratic candidates for governor. Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman, Indiana Republican Chairman Murray Clark and U.S. Rep. Mike Pence, of Columbus, are names to watch on the GOP side.

"With Daniels out of the way, an open race and invigorated Democratic party in Indiana, I think 2012 is looking like it could be real interesting," Dion said.